Russian and Soviet artists Russian and soviet painters. Category Archives: Soviet artists Soviet sculptor People's Artist of the USSR

The culture of the Soviet and post-Soviet period is a bright large-scale round of Russian heritage. The events of 1917 became the reporting point in the development of a new way of life and the formation of a new way of thinking. The mood of society in the 19th - early 20th centuries. resulted in the October Revolution, turning point in the history of the country. Now a new future awaited her with its own ideals and goals. Art, which in a sense is a mirror of the era, also became a tool for implementing the tenets of the new regime. Unlike other types of artistic creativity, painting, which forms and shapes human thought, penetrated into people's consciousness in the most accurate and direct way. On the other hand, pictorial art was least subordinate to the propaganda function and reflected the experiences of the people, their dreams and, above all, the spirit of the time.

Russian avant-garde

The new art did not completely avoid the old traditions. Painting, in the first post-revolutionary years, absorbed the influences of the futurists and the avant-garde in general. The avant-garde, with its contempt for the traditions of the past, which was so close to the destructive ideas of the revolution, found adherents in the form of young artists. In parallel with these trends in the fine arts, realistic trends developed, which were given life by critical realism XIX century This bipolarity, which matured at the moment of changing eras, made the life of the artist of that time especially tense. Although the two paths that emerged in post-revolutionary painting were opposites, we can nevertheless observe the influence of the avant-garde on the work of realistic artists. Realism itself in those years was diverse. Works of this style have a symbolic, propaganda and even romantic appearance. The work of B.M. absolutely accurately conveys in symbolic form the grandiose change in the life of the country. Kustodieva - “Bolshevik” and, filled with pathetic tragedy and uncontrollable jubilation, “New Planet” by K.F. Yuona.

Painting by P.N. Filonov with his special creative method- “analytical realism” - is a fusion of two contrasting artistic movements, which we can see in the example of a cycle with the propaganda name and meaning “Entering the World’s Heyday.”

P.N. Filonov Ships from the series Entering into global prosperity. 1919 Tretyakov Gallery

The unquestioningness of universal human values, unshakable even in such time of troubles expresses the image of the beautiful “Petrograd Madonna” (official title “1918 in Petrograd”) by K.S. Petrova-Vodkina.

A positive attitude towards revolutionary events infects the light and filled with a sunny, airy atmosphere creativity of the landscape painter A.A. Rylova. The landscape “Sunset”, in which the artist expressed a premonition of the fire of revolution, which will flare up from the growing flame of the judgment fire over the past era, represents one of the inspiring symbols of this time.

Together with symbolic images organizing the rise folk spirit and, like an obsession, there was a trend in realistic painting, with a craving for a concrete representation of reality.
To this day, the works of this period contain a spark of rebellion that can express itself within each of us. Many works that were not endowed with such qualities or that contradicted them were destroyed or forgotten, and will never be presented to our eyes.
The avant-garde forever leaves its mark on realistic painting, but a period of intensive development of the direction of realism begins.

Time for artistic associations

The 1920s are the time of creation of a new world on the ruins left by the Civil War. For art, this is a period in which various creative associations developed their activities in full force. Their principles were shaped in part by early artistic groups. The Association of Artists of the Revolution (1922 - AHRR, 1928 - AHRR), personally carried out orders from the state. Under the slogan of “heroic realism”, the artists who were part of it documented in their works the life and everyday life of man - the brainchild of the revolution, in various genres of painting. The main representatives of AHRR were I.I. Brodsky, who absorbed the realistic influences of I.E. Repin, who worked in the historical-revolutionary genre and created a whole series of works depicting V.I. Lenina, E.M. Cheptsov - master of the everyday genre, M.B. Grekov, who painted battle scenes in a rather impressionistic manner. All these masters were the founders of the genres in which they performed most of their work. Among them, the canvas “Lenin in Smolny” stands out, in which I.I. Brodsky conveyed the image of the leader in the most direct and sincere form.

In the film “Meeting of the Membership Cell” E.I. Cheptsov very reliably, without contrition, depicts the events that took place in the life of the people.

M.B. creates a magnificent joyful, noisy image filled with stormy movement and celebration of victory. Grekov in the composition "Trumpeters of the First Cavalry Army".

The idea of a new person, a new image of a person is expressed by the trends that have emerged in the portrait genre, the bright masters of which were S.V. Malyutin and G.G. Ryazhsky. In the portrait of the writer-fighter Dmitry Furmanov S.V. Malyutin shows a man of the old world who managed to fit into new world. Announces itself new trend, which originated in the work of N.A. Kasatkina and developed in to the highest degree V female images G.G. Ryazhsky - “Delegate”, “Chairwoman”, in which the personal principle is erased and the type of person created by the new world is established.
An absolutely accurate impression is formed about the development of the landscape genre when seeing the work of the leading landscape painter B.N. Yakovleva - “Transport is getting better.”

B.N. Yakovlev Transport is getting better. 1923

This genre depicts a renewing country, the normalization of all spheres of life. During these years, the industrial landscape came to the fore, the images of which became symbols of creation.
The Society of Easel Painters (1925) is the next artistic association in this period. Here the artist sought to convey the spirit of modernity, the type of a new person, resorting to a more detached transmission of images through a minimal number of expressive means. The works of "Ostovtsev" often demonstrate the theme of sports. Their painting is filled with dynamics and expression, as can be seen in the works of A.A. Deineki "Defense of Petrograd", Yu.P. Pimenova "Football" and others.

As the basis for their artistic creativity, members of another well-known association - “The Four Arts” - chose the expressiveness of the image, due to the laconic and constructive form, as well as a special attitude to its coloristic saturation. The most memorable representative of the association is K.S. Petrov-Vodkin and one of his most outstanding works of this period is “The Death of a Commissar”, which through a special pictorial language reveals a deep symbolic image, symbol of the struggle for a better life.

Among the members of the “Four Arts” P.V. also stands out. Kuznetsov, works dedicated to the East.
The last major artistic association of this period seems to be the Society of Moscow Artists (1928), which differs from the others in the manner of energetic sculpting of volumes, attention to chiaroscuro and plastic expressiveness of form. Almost all of the representatives were members of the "Bubnovy Volt" - adherents of futurism - which greatly affected their creativity. The works of P.P. were indicative. Konchalovsky, who worked in different genres. For example, portraits of his wife O.V. Konchalovskaya conveys the specificity of not only the author’s hand, but also the painting of the entire association.

By the decree “On the restructuring of literary and artistic organizations” on April 23, 1932, all artistic associations and the Union of Artists of the USSR was created. Creativity has fallen into the sinister shackles of rigid ideologization. The freedom of expression of the artist - the basis of the creative process - has been violated. Despite this breakdown, artists previously united in communities continued their activities, but new figures took leading importance in the pictorial environment.
B.V. Ioganson was influenced by I.E. Repin and V.I. Surikov, in his canvases one can see a compositional search and interesting possibilities in coloristic solutions, but the author’s paintings are marked by an excessive satirical attitude, inappropriate in such a naturalistic manner, which we can observe in the example of the painting “At the Old Ural Factory.”

A.A. Deineka does not stay away from the “official” line of art. He is still true to his artistic principles. Now he continues to work in genre themes, and also paints portraits and landscapes. The painting “Future Pilots” well shows his painting during this period: romantic, light.

The artist creates a large number of works on a sports theme. His watercolors painted after 1935 remain from this period.

Painting of the 1930s represents a fictional world, the illusion of a bright and festive life. It was easiest for the artist to remain sincere in the landscape genre. The genre of still life is developing.
The portrait is also subject to intensive development. P.P. Konchalovsky writes a series of cultural figures (“V. Sofronitsky at the piano”). Works by M.V. Nesterov, who absorbed the influence of painting by V.A. Serov, show a person as a creator, the essence of whose life is creative search. This is how we see the portraits of the sculptor I.D. Shadra and surgeon S.S. Yudina.

P.D. Korin continues the portrait tradition of the previous artist, but his painting style consists of conveying rigidity of form, a sharper, more expressive silhouette and harsh coloring. Generally, great value The theme of the creative intelligentsia plays in the portrait.

Artist at war

With the advent of the Great Patriotic War, artists begin to take an active part in hostilities. Due to direct unity with events, in early years works appear, the essence of which is a recording of what is happening, a “picturesque sketch”. Often such paintings lacked depth, but their rendering expressed the artist’s completely sincere attitude and the height of moral pathos. The portrait genre is coming to relative prosperity. Artists, seeing and experiencing the destructive influence of war, admire its heroes - people from the people, persistent and noble in spirit, who showed the highest humanistic qualities. Such trends resulted in ceremonial portraits: “Portrait of Marshal G.K. Zhukov" brushed by P.D. Korina, cheerful faces from the paintings of P.P. Konchalovsky. Portraits of the intelligentsia M.S. are important. Saryan, created during the war years, is the image of academician “I.A. Orbeli”, writer “M.S. Shaginyan" and others.

From 1940 to 1945 the landscape also develops and everyday genre, which were combined in his work by A.A. Plastov. “The Fascist Flew Over” conveys the tragedy of life during this period.

The psychologism of the landscape here further fills the work with sadness and silence. human soul, only the howl of a devoted friend cuts through the wind of confusion. Ultimately, the meaning of the landscape is rethought and begins to embody the harsh image of wartime.
Separately highlighted story paintings, for example, “Mother of the Partisan” by S.V. Gerasimov, who is characterized by a refusal to glorify the image.

Historical painting creates images in a timely manner national heroes past. One of such unshakable and confidence-inspiring images is “Alexander Nevsky” by P.D. Korina, personifying the unconquered proud spirit of the people. In this genre, towards the end of the war, a tendency toward simulated dramaturgy is emerging.

The theme of war in painting

In post-war painting, ser. 1940 - end In the 1950s, the theme of war, as a moral and physical test, occupied a leading position in painting, from which soviet man came out victorious. Historical-revolutionary and historical genres are developing. The main theme of the everyday genre is peaceful labor, which was dreamed of during the long war years. The canvases of this genre are permeated with cheerfulness and happiness. Artistic language the everyday genre becomes narrative and gravitates toward life-likeness. IN recent years During this period, the landscape also underwent changes. In it, the life of the region is revived, the connection between man and nature is again strengthened, and an atmosphere of tranquility appears. Love for nature is also glorified in still life. Portrait is getting an interesting development in creativity different artists, which is characterized by the transfer of the individual. One of outstanding works of this period were: “Letter from the Front” by A.I. Laktionov, a work like a window into a radiant world;

the composition “Rest after the battle”, in which Y.M. Neprintsev achieves the same vitality of the image as A.I. Laktionov;

work by A.A. Mylnikova's "On Peaceful Fields", joyfully rejoicing about the end of the war and the reunification of man and labor;

original landscape image of G.G. Nyssky - “Above the Snows”, etc.

Severe style replacing socialist realism

Art 1960-1980s is a new stage. Development of a new " harsh style", whose task was to recreate reality without everything that deprives the work of depth and expressiveness and has a detrimental effect on creative manifestations. He was characterized by conciseness and generalization artistic image. Artists of this style glorified the heroic beginning of harsh everyday work, which was created by the special emotional structure of the picture. The “severe style” was a definite step towards the democratization of society. The main genre in which adherents of the style worked was the portrait; group portraits, everyday genres, historical and historical-revolutionary genres were also developing. Prominent representatives of this period in the context of the development of the “severe style” were V.E. Popkov, who painted many self-portraits and paintings, V.I. Ivanov is a supporter of group portraits, G.M. Korzhev, who created historical paintings. The essence of the “severe style” can be seen in the film “Geologists” by P.F. Nikonova, “Polar Explorers” by A.A. and P.A. Smolinykh, "Father's Overcoat" by V.E. Popkova. In the landscape genre, interest in northern nature appears.

Symbolism of the era of stagnation

In the 1970-1980s. a new generation of artists is being formed, whose art has influenced art to some extent today. They are characterized by symbolic language and theatrical spectacle. Their painting is quite artistic and virtuosic. The main representatives of this generation are T.G. Nazarenko ("Pugachev"),

whose favorite theme was celebration and masquerade, A.G. Sitnikov, who uses metaphor and parable as a form of plastic language, N.I. Nesterova, creator of controversial paintings ("The Last Supper"), I.L. Lubennikov, N.N. Smirnov.

Last Supper. N.I. Nesterova. 1989

Thus, this time appears in its diversity and diversity as the final, formative link of today’s fine arts.

Our era has revealed a huge wealth of the pictorial heritage of previous generations. The modern artist is not limited by practically any framework that was decisive, and sometimes hostile, for the development of fine art. Some part contemporary artists tries to adhere to the principles of the Soviet realistic school, some find themselves in other styles and directions. The trends of conceptual art, which are ambiguously perceived by society, are very popular. The breadth of artistic expression and ideals that the past has provided us must be rethought and serve as the basis for new ones. creative ways and creating a new image.

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Despite the changing and contradictory situation in Russia that affected the artists of the 20th century, they made their unique mark on the history of Russian and, subsequently, Soviet fine art. In the first 3 decades of the beginning of the century, many painters enthusiastically tried to create something unusual and new, each creator sought to make his own unique contribution to the development of his creativity. At this time, non-objective painting was gaining popularity, sometimes in the boring colors of Malevich and Kandinsky that were not entirely understandable to the common man.

In the early 1920s, various experiments and bold compositional and design solutions were replaced by constructivism. Practicality in design and revolutionary realism in painting are welcomed for the benefit of a new trend - socialism. Despite the vigorous propaganda, the search for novelty continued as before, many are experimenting, but there is a feeling of anxiety, this will last for a long time. Some (Serebryakov in their ranks) still travel abroad. For another 10 years they will be able to embody (or at least try) their own ideas and initiatives in their paintings.

But, already at the end of the 1920s, any manifestation of self-expression would be prohibited. Avant-garde artists are beginning to be pushed out of creative life, and those who disagree are subject to repression. Now every canvas must promote communism and Soviet ideology, and a new genre is emerging - socialist realism. Many art masters had to forget the past free life and to exist in the unpleasant conditions of such a difficult time, that is, to work for the glory of socialism, creating canvases about the ordinary life of the working proletariat and collective farmers.

In 1932, the Union of Artists was created, and art was divided into official and unofficial. Every figure in this movement, if he wants to have the opportunity to exhibit his works, must write in the genre of socialist realism. Other genres are simply prohibited, their representatives are not accepted into the “Union”, and their works are not allowed into any exhibition. The names of the “undesirables” are not listed anywhere; the authorities are doing everything to erase them from the world of art. In fact, painters have three options left: join the government and start drawing and writing about the necessary socio-ideology, continue to create, and get by with unofficial exhibitions; or, try to find a compromise.

Some try to continue experimenting, but simply cannot stand the pressure. “Official” artists are crowding out representatives of other genres, they enjoy the privileges of the “Union”, and earn a good living. Representatives of unofficial genres have to earn extra money by painting, drawing illustrations, or spend their talent, as a designer, on decorating halls, writing revolutionary posters. You can't imagine anything worse for a creative person. The names of most of the “fighters” have not even survived to this day.

There are also bright representatives of socialist realism who work in the genre not out of coercion, but for ideological reasons. People like Sergei Gerasimov and Tatyana Yablonskaya devote themselves to work that allows them to earn money and become famous. And Fyodor Reshetnikov not only supports social realism, but harshly criticizes and even ridicules representatives of other genres (especially with the painting “The Secrets of Abstractionism”). The works of Vrubel are very noteworthy, who in his subjects often turned to mythical stories (“The Defeated Demon”, “ Six-winged seraph"). Art historians call this period the “Silver Age” of Russian culture.

Most painters find a compromise: they belong to the Union of Artists and paint portraits from time to time famous personalities, they paint thematic canvases or custom scripts, but devote their free time to neutral topics. Among such personalities are Vasily Baksheev, Boris Kustodiev, Konstantin Yuon. A striking example is Arkady Plastov. Even after his death he is considered an official artist, but the theme of most of his works remains rural landscapes, the life of collective farmers and ordinary people.

The opinion of art historians regarding the “Soviet” period is quite ambiguous. Some criticize painters for blindly glorifying communism and its leaders, well, because today it is possible and not dangerous. Others with understanding try to justify the creators who simply had no choice, and still others call the rare surviving works of underground figures, of which only a few have survived, true masterpieces. But, be that as it may, one thing remains undeniable: true talent has always made its way through. Despite all the troubles of that time, many artists of the 20th century devoted themselves to social realism and created paintings that became world-class masterpieces.

Plastov Arkady Aleksandrovich (1893–1972) Over his many years of creativity, he wrote many works, of which the most notable are the canvases Haymaking and Harvest. Tractor Drivers' Dinner, First Snow, In Summer, Sanya Malikov and others.

His biographical work was closely connected with the description of the life of ordinary people in the history of Soviet art. In Soviet times, this was a very popular topic, praising the proletarian spirit of the common people. Plastov’s works are imbued with a love of nature; he had deep respect for the simple life of peasants and is respected by them.

(1906–1988) Famous Russian painter of the USSR. His works include very popular works: Arrived for the holidays, A deuce again, For peace, Boys, Got your tongue and many other works.

Worked in the genre socialist realism, and is one of its most famous representatives. Reshetnikov, by his conviction, was always a strong supporter of socialist realism; in this direction, he liked satire, so he was cool towards other styles of work. Being somewhat of a critic himself, in 1960 he created the canvas “Secrets of Abstractionism”; inspired by this work, he also wrote a book.

, (1884-1967) In her creative biography such works are noticeable as: self-portrait “At the toilet”, Children at lunch, she likes to paint village women, one of the works “Whitening the Canvas”, Peasants at lunch, Ballerinas in the restroom, etc.

Without a doubt, Serebryakova belongs to the galaxy of the brightest realists of the 20th century. The subjects for her works and creative inspiration came to her from life itself. Like a lonely island in the ocean, it was washed by different currents: symbolism, the “World of Art”, impressionism, cubism. But she is invariably and persistently true to herself and her own principles.

(1878-1927) One of the most brilliant masters and widely famous for his creativity. The most famous works are Maslenitsa 1916, 1919 and 1920, Merchant Counting Money. Lilac 1906, with the proletarian spirit of the work Bolshevik. painted portraits, and it was with them that he began his work. Portrait of Chaliapin F. I. 1921,

Portrait of the wife of Yu. Kustodieva, 1903., Notgaft R.I. 1909. He loved to depict Russian holidays on his canvases. His canvases are truly stunning in color and flair. Here you will find a colorful Russian fair with Russian women covered in assorted women's scarves and men dressed up as peasants selling clay and wooden utensils. Kustodiev often painted magnificent women and full-figured compositions of not wealthy merchants, or people close to such occupations

(1875-1958) His most notable works: Winter the Sorceress, March Sun, Russian Winter, Ligachevo, Spring Sunny Day, End of Winter. Noon, etc. In a fashionable theme at that time, in Yuon’s work there are also unusual canvases, one of them is the New Planet

The genres of Yuon's work spread in various fields of art. He created thematic works, painted many portraits of famous personalities and contemporaries. But Yuon’s calling always came first landscape theme, prone to impressionism, Yuon adhered to the traditional realistic style of writing.

(1917-2005) She is a prominent representative of the fine arts of the 20th century. Her most notable works: Before the start. 1947, Bread. 1959, Morning. 1954 and many others.

Like most of her colleagues, she works a lot in the genre of socialist realism, but also paints portraits, landscapes, and still lifes. Yablonskaya is one of the few representatives of socialist realism; these masterpieces were recognized not only by domestic, but also by world critics. Despite her state of health towards the end of her life, Tatyana Nilovna continued to engage in creativity.

(1884-1958) Of Krymov’s notable paintings: Summer day, Winter evening, Early morning, Windy day. Bull . New tavern and others. In addition to oil landscapes, Nikolai Krymov was fond of graphics and designed theatrical scenery.

The creativity of this remarkable master is associated with the development of a difficult Soviet era landscape painting. “The student surpassed his teacher” - this is exactly what can be said about Nikolai Petrovich Krymov, who received his first painting lessons in his life from his father, but never earned fame among the general public. His son, on the contrary, became famous as one of the most famous landscape painters of the twentieth century.

(1871-1960) In the field of painting he lit up such works as: “Rooks’ Nests”, “ White winter", "March snow" and "February blue", "Winter morning", "Clear autumn evening.

He created compositions with Lenin “Peasant Walkers at Lenin”, and many other works. - A prominent Russian painter, in his creative biography he was always faithful to the styles of impressionism. Grabar’s contribution to art is very versatile and fruitful; it is probably difficult to find a person of his time who would give himself for the benefit of Russian and Soviet art. He worked as a teacher, architect, writer, and headed museums and painting restorations. Awarded the Order of Lenin, the Red Banner of Labor and other awards.

(1910-1988) Of his most notable works, the works of 1947 stand out. At a meeting, 1949 Admission to the Komsomol, 1949 Goalkeeper, 1950 Discussion of the deuce and a painting painted in 1954 Returned.

Honored Academician of the Academy of Arts Soviet Union and Ukraine. For his services he was awarded two Stalin Prizes of the second degree, a member of the Communist Party since 1941. He left for the public heritage many works stored in many museums in Russia, Ukraine, as well as in Bulgaria and Japan.

Tutunov Sergey Andreevich (1925-1998) Among his works, the work Winter has come stands out. Childhood, created in 1960, in which the management of the Tretyakov Gallery became interested, and the painting was purchased and placed in the halls of the Tretyakov Gallery.

The Soviet painter was born in Moscow in 1925 into a family of Russified Armenians, graduated from his art education at the Moscow Art School (1939-1945), and later in Moscow (1945-1951) he studied painting at the Surikov Institute, his teacher was P. Pokarzhevsky. D. Since 1953, he has been actively participating in various art exhibitions.

Popov Igor Aleksandrovich (1927-1999) loved the theme of city life with its inhabitants and reflected these compositions in his canvases: “Fishermen of Galich”, “Market Day”, “First Snow”, “Our Yard”, “At the Kyiv Station” and other.

He graduated from the Surikov Institute in 1951, a student of S. Gerasimov. People's Artist of the RSFSR, was the head of the Union of Artists of the RSFSR. Popov's work is mainly associated with landscape painting; he also turned to genre compositions and painted portraits. His works reflect deep perception life path and are imbued with a poetic concept and characteristic style of perception of the Russian nature of the northern outskirts.

Gerasimov Sergei Vasilyevich (1885-1964) Gerasimov wrote many works on the theme of folk life, one of the most notable is (Church of the Intercession on the Nerl 1953), (At the cart, 1906), (Weddings in a tavern", 1909), (Mozhaisk Rows" , 1908),

dramatic subjects (Oath of the Siberian Partisans 1933), (Mother of a Partisan 1947), often painted portraits and landscapes (Winter 1939), (Spring Morning 1953), graphic drawings(Front-line soldier 1926), (Collective farm watchman 1933) and many other works. Talented Soviet painter and teacher, student of Korovin K. A. and Ivanov S. V. He began his work with watercolor works based on a special color scheme that contributes to its further development.

The colorful and eventful 20th century remained for posterity in works of art. It is impossible to know the mentality of people of the last century if we ignore the pictures that have been preserved for us. The number of bright colors or their absence, the manner of painting can tell a lot to our contemporaries.

For both historians and art lovers, paintings created by foreign and Russian artists of the 20th century are of great interest. The names of the creators are alive in history and known throughout the world.

V. V. Kandinsky (12/16/1866 - 12/13/1944)

V.V. Kandinsky is considered one of the most famous painters of the last century. The artist discovered his talent quite late. He felt a craving for creativity after becoming acquainted with Monet’s paintings.

After this moment, Vasily Vasilyevich abandons his career as a lawyer and increasingly secludes himself with a sketchbook, goes into nature and sketches what amazes him. He decides to get an education and goes to Munich, where his talent was appreciated. After the course was completed, Kandinsky decided to stay in the country and teach. It is believed that this period of life became the most productive for the artist.

It was difficult to guess from the artist’s first paintings that he would soon make a revolution in the world of art. Kandinsky gradually found his way. The artist tried a lot before becoming the founder of abstract art.

One of the first paintings created in this direction is “The Gorge,” painted in 1914. is also considered one of the most famous in creative career Kandinsky.

Started First World War forced the artist to return to home country. Due to the subsequent revolution and civil war, exhibitions had to be abandoned for a while. Only in 1916 Kandinsky was able to show his paintings in Sweden.

The renewed Russia inspired the painter to create the painting “Red Square”. After this painting, Kandinsky again had to give up creativity. He had to do a large amount of work, which left neither the strength nor the time to create paintings. Then it was decided to go to Germany to focus all attention on what he loved. But the new country greeted the artist with an unpleasant surprise.

Like many 20th century artists, Kandinsky lived in poverty for some time. In Germany and France, Vasily Vasilyevich created many new paintings, known throughout the world. Among them are “Circles in a Circle”, “Intimate News”, “Everyone for Himself”.

Kandinsky died in 1944 after a serious illness.

A. Matisse (12/31/1869 - 11/03/1954)

Henri Matisse is one of the most famous artists of the last century. It is believed that the future painter was inspired to pick up a brush by his mother, who painted ceramics. Like many artists of the 20th century, Matisse did not immediately find his path. He knew that he liked painting, but it could not become his main way of earning money. Because future artist received a law degree and worked in his profession for some time. But at the same time he found time for painting lessons. Only in 1891, despite his father’s prohibitions, Matisse decided to leave law, go to Paris and take up painting seriously.

After 5 years, his paintings appear before the general public for the first time. The painting “Reading” gained particular popularity; it was purchased to decorate the office of the French President.

Matisse was engaged not only in painting. He was interested in sculpture and attended courses. But this did not bring him as much fame. At the beginning of his journey, Matisse, like many in the 20th century, experienced financial difficulties, so for some time he and his family had to live with his parents.

In 1905, one of the most famous, “The Woman in the Green Hat,” was released. This work and a number of others made art lovers start talking about Henri and began to take an interest in his work.

One of the first admirers of the famous painter’s talent was the Russian collector S.I. Shchukin. He inspired Matisse to visit Moscow, where the artist discovered collections of old Russian icons. They amazed him and left an imprint on his further work.

Worldwide famous name Matisse becomes after creating the cycle “Odalisques” and the scenery for the performance of Stravinsky’s ballet.

The 40s were very difficult for the painter. His wife, daughter and son were arrested by the Gestapo for participating in the Resistance movement, and he himself was seriously ill. But Matisse continued to work. Despite the tragic events in the world and in the life of the artist, the canvases remain bright, light, breathing joy.

Matisse continued to work until his last days. He died of a heart attack in 1954.

P. Picasso (25.10.1881 - 08.04.1973)

Artists of the 20th century are still known and popular. The list, however, would be incomplete if it did not include mention of the great Spanish creator Pablo Picasso.

This amazing man showed a passion for painting even in early childhood. The development of his talent was also helped by the fact that his father was an art teacher and gave lessons to his son. The first serious work appeared when the young painter was only 8. That work was called “Picador”. Until the end of his life, Picasso did not part with her.

The artist's parents moved often, but in each new city Picasso did everything to get an education. He amazed me with his skills at such a young age.

In Barcelona, Picasso found like-minded people and friends. Then the development of the artist’s abilities reached a new level. But the suicide of his friend dealt a big blow to Picasso. Subsequent paintings, which are usually attributed to the “blue” period, are permeated with the theme of old age and death. During this period, “Woman with a Bun”, “Absinthe Lover” and many other paintings appeared. The artist's inspiration comes from the lower strata of the population.

Then Picasso's attention is attracted by traveling circus performers. Pink is slowly replacing blue from paintings. The “pink” period begins. This includes the painting “Girl on a Ball”.

The painter's attention is increasingly drawn not to color, but to form. Together with his friend, Picasso creates a completely new direction in art - cubism. The famous “Factory in Horta de Ebro” and “Portrait of Fernanda Olivier” appear. The artist never stops experimenting. He uses different materials to create canvases.

Work in this direction ended with the outbreak of the First World War. Then Picasso had to part with his friend. Like many artists of the 20th century, Pablo was struck by the beauty of Russian ballet. He agrees to create costumes for the artists and decorations, and goes on tour with his new acquaintances. Picasso marries a Russian girl, Olga Khokhlova. She becomes his model for many paintings.

1925 becomes the year of a turning point in the artist’s creative biography. His canvases are increasingly reminiscent of puzzles. The surrealist poets have a great influence on the painter. During this period, “Girl in front of a mirror”, “Man with a bouquet” and other paintings were created.

Much changed before the start of the war. The destruction to the foundation of the city of the Basque country forced Picasso to create the famous painting “Guernica”. This and subsequent works of the artist were imbued with the idea of pacifism.

Happiness comes to Picasso with the end of the war. He marries and has two more children. The artist moves with his wife. The young wife and children become an inspiration for Picasso.

N.K. Roerich (09/27/1874 - 12/13/1947)

Roerich Nicholas Konstantinovich showed himself to be an extraordinary person from early childhood. Science was easy for him, and he quickly completed the training program offered to him. He passed the exams with ease and entered one of the best and most expensive gymnasiums in St. Petersburg. The range of interests of the future artist was incredibly wide. And even then he was interested in painting.

But at the insistence of his father, Roerich decides to study to become a lawyer. While receiving his education, he reads a lot of historical works, is interested in chronicles and participates in archaeological excavations. Like many artists of the early 20th century, he did not immediately come to the idea that painting should become his main occupation. Roerich was able to realize his talent after communicating with Kuindzhi, who agreed to become the young artist’s teacher.

His passion for history was reflected in the paintings of Nikolai Konstantinovich. He created a series of paintings “The Beginning of Rus'. Slavs". Roerich did not try to show any key moments of historical development with the help of his paintings. He talked about everyday life, everyday moments, which, however, seem almost fabulous to the modern viewer.

A big role in the life of Nikolai Konstantinovich was played by his wife, who inspired him and helped him in his work. Together with her, Roerich went on a trip to the ancient cities of Russia. The result was a series of paintings depicting architectural monuments.

Many 20th century artists were interested in theater and created stage sets. Nikolai Konstantinovich was no exception. His works helped create the atmosphere for many performances.

After the revolution, Nicholas Roerich and his wife set off on a journey that would become turning point in their lives. The painter explores Central Asia, studies Tibet, India, Altai, Mongolia, and the Himalayas. The result of this trip was not only paintings, but also great material about the traditions, customs and history of the lands where the expedition visited.

In the last years of his life, Roerich increasingly painted landscapes. He created the Himalayas. Glaciers", "Ladak Stupa", "Royal Monastery. Tibet" and many others wonderful paintings. The artist’s works and his historical work were highly appreciated by the Indian government. He was considered a Russian friend of this mysterious and beautiful country.

Nicholas Konstantinovich Roerich died in India in 1947. His son brought his father's paintings to Russia.

K. S. Petrov-Vodkin (24.10.1878 - 15.02.1939)

Artists left many wonderful works to their descendants. Silver Age. One of the most famous painters working at that time was Kuzma Sergeevich Petrov-Vodkin.

The future artist was born into a family that was far from the world of art. If it weren’t for the local merchants who helped Kuzma Sergeevich get an education, he might never have discovered his talent. At first he studied in a painting class in Samara, then went to hone his abilities in Moscow, where he took lessons from the famous artist V. A. Serov.

A trip to Europe is of great importance in the biography of Petrov-Vodkin. Then he gets acquainted with the paintings of the creators of the Renaissance. Paintings by 20th century artists also had their influence: Petrov-Vodkin was struck by the works of the French symbolists.

Symbolism captivates the painter. He begins to create paintings in this direction. The most famous of them is the painting “The Bathing of the Red Horse,” created in 1912. Slightly less known are the paintings “Mother” and “Girls on the Volga”.

Petrov-Vodkin created several portraits. Most often they depict the artist’s friends. The portrait he created of Anna Akhmatova is very popular.

Kuzma Sergeevich supported revolutionary ideas. Participants Civil War, supporting the ideas of the Reds, appear in his canvases as heroes. The paintings “Battlefield” and “Death of a Commissar” are widely known.

Towards the end of his life, Petrov-Vodkin wrote several that became interesting not only to fans of his talent, but also to all literature lovers.

K. S. Malevich (02/11/1879 - 05/15/1935)

One of the most famous artists of the last century was Kazimir Severinovich Malevich. The avant-garde artist made a real splash in the art world and made his name known throughout the planet.

No one could have imagined that a boy from a Polish family, who helped villagers paint stoves in his free time, would one day become great. Village life amazed the future artist. He painted everything that particularly resonated with him.

The family moved often. When the Malevichs lived in Kyiv, Kazimir Severinovich studied at a drawing school. In Kursk, he tried to earn money to study in Moscow. For a very long time he was unable to enroll. It is not known for sure, but it is believed that not a single attempt of his was successful. However, in Moscow, Malevich made many new acquaintances, and also saw paintings that influenced his further work.

In the city, Kazimir Severinovich found friends, among whom were Russian artists of the 20th century. They wanted to bring something new to the world of art and shared with Malevich their ambitious ideas and vision of the future of art.

Kazimir Severinovich himself considered color and feeling to be the basis of painting. He dreamed of changing the traditions of painting. For a long time he did not show his work to anyone. Finally they appeared at the futurism exhibition. Shortly before it, Malevich published a brochure in the title of which Suprematism was mentioned for the first time.

At the futurism exhibition, for the first time, viewers see the legendary “Black Square,” as well as “Red Square” and “Suprematism. Self-portrait in two dimensions."

The innovation introduced by Malevich received recognition. Kazimir Severinovich had his first students, with whom he studied first in Vitebsk and then in Petrograd. Malevich's fame spread to other countries. He went to Germany to organize an exhibition of his own works.

Malevich's paintings were exhibited in Tretyakov Gallery. He was ready to continue working, but his health was getting worse every day. Kazimir Severinovich died on May 15, 1935.

S. Dali (05/11/1904 - 01/23/1989)

The most controversial artist of the last century, without a doubt, is Salvador Dali. His talent as a painter was discovered very early. His parents were glad that their boy loved to draw, so they encouraged his hobby in every possible way. El Salvador had his first teacher, Professor Joan Nunez.

Dali was an unusual person, he was not ready to come to terms with the established rules. He was expelled from the monastic school, which his father was very unhappy with. Then Salvador had to go to Madrid to develop his talent there and learn something new.

At the Academy, Dali was interested in cubism and futurism. Then he created the paintings “Device and Hand” and “Portrait of Luis Buñuel.” But Salvador was expelled from the Academy for his refusal to obey the rules of the institution, eccentric behavior and disrespect for teachers.

But this event was not a tragedy. Dali was already famous then and organized personal exhibitions. He tried himself not only as an artist, he also created films. The first film was “Andalusian Forest”, followed by “The Golden Age”.

In 1929, Salvador Dali met his muse and future wife Elena Dyakonova, who called herself Gala. She helped her lover, introduced him to many famous people, among whom were Russian artists, helped him find his own path. It became surrealism.

Almost all of the following paintings were in one way or another connected with Dali’s beloved wife. He creates "The Persistence of Memory" and "Gala's Paranoid Face Transformation".

After the outbreak of World War II, Dali and his wife went to the United States, where they published an autobiography. Salvador worked very hard in this country. He not only created paintings, but also tried himself as a designer, jeweler, set designer, and newspaper editor-in-chief.

After the war, Dali returned to his homeland. During this period it appears in many of the artist’s paintings. Among them, for example, is the “Rhinoceros-shaped figure of Ilyssa Phidias.”

A real blow for Salvador Dali was the death of his beloved woman, Elena Dyakonova. He was so depressed that he could not attend her funeral. For a long time after this, Dali could not create a single painting. However, it was still incredibly popular.

Dali's last painting was "Swallow's Tail". After this, due to illness, the artist could no longer work. He died on January 23, 1989.

Frida Kahlo (07/06/1907 - 07/13/1954)

One of the few world-famous female artists of the last century was Frida Kahlo. She never wanted to give in on anything opposite sex, went in for sports, even got into boxing for some time.

Like many artists in Russia and the West, Frida did not immediately choose her path. She studied medicine. It was during her studies that she met Diego Rivera, who would later become her husband.

When Frida was 18, she was in a terrible accident. Because of this she for a long time spent in bed and could never become a mother. Lying in bed, unable to get up, Kahlo began to study painting. She looked at the mirror mounted above and drew self-portraits.

At the age of 22, Frida continued to receive her education, but she could no longer give up painting. She continued to work, became closer and closer to Rivera, and then became his wife. But Diego dealt a strong blow to Frida - he cheated on the artist with her sister. After this, Kahlo created the painting “Just a Few Scratches.”

Frida was a communist. She communicated with Trotsky and was very glad that he lived in Mexico. It was rumored that they were connected by something more than just friendship.

Kahlo dreamed of becoming a mother, but the injuries received in the accident did not allow her to do this. Dead children increasingly became the main characters in her paintings. However, despite the suffering, Frida loved life and was a bright and positive person. She was interested in the politics of the USSR and admired the leaders. She was also attracted to Russian artists. Frida wanted to draw a portrait of Stalin, but never had time to finish her work.

Severe injuries did not allow us to forget about ourselves. She was often forced to stay in the hospital; her leg was amputated. But after that there was a bright spot in her life - her first solo exhibition.

D. Pollock (01/28/1912 - 08/11/1956)

One of the most famous artists of the last century was James Pollock. He was a student of Thomas Hunt Benson and, thanks to this man, developed and increased his abilities.

Towards the end of the 30s, Pollock became acquainted with the work of the Expressionists. The paintings made an indelible impression on him. Even though Pollock's paintings were original and distinctive, it was felt that they were inspired by Picasso and the ideas of the surrealists.

In 1947, Pollock created his own method of painting. He splashed paint onto the canvas and then created a colorful web by striking it with a rope. This method aroused great interest.

Jackson Pollock became an icon for young nonconformist artists who also dreamed of finding their own path and showing the world their vision. Jackson became a symbol of innovation in art.

E. Warhol (08/06/1928 - 02/22/1987)

Even after many years he remains a fashionable and popular artist. He received his first education at the Carnegie Institute of Technology, he attended free drawing classes and developed his talent. However, immediately after this he did not become a great artist.

For a long time, Warhol drew illustrations for popular fashion magazines and created graphic works in the field of advertising. This is what made his name famous. He started drawing with a pencil and created one of his first famous works- a bottle of Coca-Cola.

Andy portrayed what was popular in the world at that time. He became the founder of a new direction, which was named pop art. His paintings depicting Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Mick Jager and many other famous personalities have become legendary.

Warhol was not only an artist, but also a screenwriter and director. He created a large number of films, the first of which were silent and black and white. In addition, he wrote several autobiographies, was the editor of a television channel and even the producer of a rock band.

The paintings of painters of the last century are of great importance for world art. Each of them brought something new and unusual. Russian artists of the 20th century also occupy a worthy place among them.

Soviet artists in our understanding, these are necessarily revolutionary or imperial painters. We are unlikely to include the heirs of movements that formed before the October Revolution in this category, as well as nonconformists, avant-garde artists and others who existed not thanks to the USSR, but in spite of it.

Deineka had an amazing ability to penetrate into a person’s soul, knew how to show him in relationship with the world - and the world is always filled with a mood, anxious or joyful, screamingly tragic or thoughtlessly summery.

Now we are not happy about waterfalls of rain pouring from the sky, but more than half a century ago people knew how to enjoy everything - if not all the inhabitants of the USSR, then certainly the artist Pimenov. What was he supposed to do back in 1937?