February Greats

Hello Friends,

welcome to my first blog.

In this post, I would like to share with you some personal insights into my family history.

As some of you may know, my father was an artist who lived and painted in Czechoslovakia between 1940 and 1981. His work was incredibly diverse, but one of his major periods was heavily influenced by the French artist, Fernand Leger. As it happens, Leger was born on February 4, 1881.

As I delved deeper into Leger's biography, I was struck by the similarities between his life and my father's, beyond their shared artistic style.

Both were born in rural environments and were discouraged from pursuing art by their families. However, their passion for creativity could not be contained, and they both embarked on extensive careers in a range of media.

They also branched out into other areas of creative expression, such as producing large-scale public art, book illustrations, mosaics, and murals, and even working in the film industry.

After World War II in 1945, they both joined the Communist Party due to their strong belief in the party's main political platform of social equality and unity.

Their art reflected a deep interest in technology and machinery, depicting speed and motion, as well as a strong commitment to social equality.

Leger's unique form of Cubism, characterized by cylindrical forms, bold colors, and strong black outlines, was a major influence on my father's work.

Fernand Leger died in 1955 when my dad was in his 30’s.  My father continued to create and he continued to develop his unique style.  

In 1968, after the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia, my father became disillusioned with the communist party's dream of unity and social equality, realizing it was a massive fabrication and deceit. He became a strong anti-communist and was subsequently banned by the regime from publicly displaying his art. As a result, his art reflected major transformation, as he explored new themes and styles, evolving from cubism to super-realism, incorporating elements of surrealism.

Reflecting on my father's and Leger's lives, I am struck by the power of passion and dedication. Despite facing obstacles and discouragement, they pursued their dreams and created works of art that continue to inspire us today.

I am sharing some of their paintings with you, and I am confident that you will see the similarities in their style and topics.

Finally, this story has inspired me to challenge myself and try to paint a picture in Leger's style, which was definitely out of my comfort zone.

Here it is, and I hope it inspires you to step out of your comfort zone and create something different this year.

Please let me know if you have any favorite artist or art style?

Do you have any favorite painting in your house?

If you would like leave your comments in the section below.