The Art of Viktoras Petravičius (Volume I)

Leidėjas: Galerija (Chicago)
Leidimo metai: 1991
Būklė: l.gera
Likutis: 1

Aprašymas
Viktoras Petravičius belongs to the group of artists who most significantly contributed to the development and growth of Lithuanian graphic art. This group was educated in the Art Institute of Kaunas and abroad, mostly in Paris. Upon returning to their native land, they enthusiastically began their major creative work. This generation was greatly influenced by Lithuanian folk art, which already in the 19th century had attracted the attention of neighboring German and Polish artists. This was the time when folk art was rediscovered, when it gained new meaning, vitality, and importance. Lithuanian artists were trying to develop a style which would reflect "The Lithuanian spirit". Folk art became their primary source of inspiration. It was collected, thoroughly examined, and displayed in museums. Several traveling exhibits were organized to introduce Lithuanian folk art to other countries. During that time, most artists were primarily interested in primitive art. Lithuanian folk art, because of its simplicity, boldness, and straightforwardness, gained special recognition, notice, and acclaim. Such acclaim especially affected the young contemporary Lithuanian artists. They devoted much of their time to the study of folk art. Groups were formed, that worked toward a style that would blend the traditions of folk art with the developments of modern art. This gave new impulse to Lithuanian art, and graphic art especially began to flourish. Taking a particular characteristic of folk art, some artists developed it according to their own interpretation. Others even imitated the old forms of folk wood carvings. Viktoras Petravičius was able to capture the very soul and spirit of folk art. As one views the works he has created, it seems that the past with its old elegantly decorated dowry chests comes to life with a new light, a new glow. The characteristics of the wood cuts of folk art are reflected and illuminated. This is not a copy nor a continuation or extension of the Lithuanian folk art. It is a transformation of the very spirit of Lithuanian folk art into modern form within the framework of Petravičius' own individualistic style. As if to emphasize and intensify the spirit of the past, Petravičius began illustrating folk stories. In the first phase of his work, he completed two books, carving the illustrations as well as the text on wood blocks. Although Petravičius' approach to his work is realistic, he stylizes, modifies, and transforms his characters within the realm of fantasy. He solves his creative problems spontaneously.