Two artists I discovered in Europe
When I was in Europe, many years ago, there were 2 artists I discovered who left a lasting impression on me. Although neither of their works fall into the category of “things I usually like,” learning about them helped draw me towards what they were doing. I admire their boldness and commitment to their ideals.
Friedensreich Hundertwasser
Hundertwasser was an artist and environmentalist whose bright colours and addition of nature to architecture is stunning. He said “the straight line is godless” and would even have curves in the floors of rooms people were living in. He was a fan of things like grass roofs and composting toilets.
Here’s a video from an exhibition of his work on the 15th anniversary of his death, from DW Euromaxx. Although his paintings seem childlike and whimsical, he was also a practical and inventive person — he created a device that purifies water using plants.
Hundertwasser and his Dreamscapes | Euromaxx
Here’s a slideshow of his paintings, from St. Paul Gallery:
Friedensreich Hundertwasser Artworks
And here’s a slideshow of his architecture, from creative design square:
HUNDERTWASSER CREATIVE BUILDINGS | HUNDERTWASSER — World famous Artist
Gustav Klimt
Klimt was an artist at the end of the 19th century in Vienna who stepped away from his conservative peers and forged a new path — he was part of what’s called the Vienna Secession movement. His realistic portrayal of people combined with decorative patterns is striking.
In this video from Great Art Explained, they focus on Klimt’s most famous painting, “The Kiss,” but they also talk about his life and his environment. Not only is his work interesting, but the reaction to it is also fascinating. One of his pieces, “Beethoven Frieze,” was inspired by Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
The Kiss by Gustav Klimt: Great Art Explained
Here is a slideshow of his paintings, from Learn From Masters: