Kostelanetz, Richard

Richard Kostelanetz was born on May 14, 1940, in New York, NY. He is the son of Boris Kostelanetz, a lawyer, and Ethel (Cory) Kostelanetz. He received his B.A. from Brown University in 1962 with honors. He pursued graduate study at King's College in London from 1964 to 1965 and received an M.A. from Columbia University in 1966. Richard Kostelanetz is a writer, visual artist, critic, poet, composer, filmmaker, video artist, lecturer and editor of the avant-garde. In 1971, employing a radically formalist approach, Kostelanetz produced the novel "In the Beginning", which consists of the alphabet, in single- and double-letter combinations, unfolding over 30 pages. Most of his other literary work also challenges the reader in unconventional ways and is often printed in limited editions at small presses. In 1999 he published the "Dictionary of the Avant-Gardes." Kostelanetz has lectured and given readings of his poetry and fiction at numerous colleges and universities. He has exhibited his book art, visual poetry, and other works in over 60 group exhibitions and numerous solo exhibitions. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards and fellowships.

From the description of Richard Kostelanetz papers, 1961-1997. (New York University). WorldCat record id: 476113915