Robert Haas was a renowned Jewish Austrian photographer born in 1886 in Vienna. He
began his career as a photographer in the 1910s, capturing the scenic beauty of the Austrian
landscapes. Initially employed as a graphic designer and print artist in Vienna, Haas transitioned to
a flourishing career in photojournalism after receiving training from Viennese studio photographer
Trude Fleischmann. Throughout the 1930s, he crafted compelling narratives through everyday and
social reports and captivating portraits and object studies.
In 1938, owing to his Jewish heritage, Haas was forced to leave Austria. Undeterred, he
embarked on a second professional journey in New York, again thriving as a graphic designer and
printer. His portfolio from this period featured striking urban photographs showcasing the influence
of American art movements. While traversing the country, Haas meticulously documented the
“American way of life” beyond metropolises, capturing the essence of diverse landscapes. His lens
also immortalised notable figures, including Albert Einstein and Oskar Kokoschka. Robert Haas’
work showcased his technical proficiency and reflected his commitment to conservation and the
appreciation of the beauty found in the natural world.
He passed away in 1970. More than 30 years after his death, his oeuvre was rediscovered by
Anton Holzer, who, together with Frauke Kreutler, organised the first posthumous exhibition of
Haas’ work at the Wien Museum. Below, you can watch an interview with Frauke Kreutler about the
work and fortunes of Robert Haas.