Stefan Filipkiewicz: Artist-Hero

Landscape Lover

I'd like to introduce Polish Artist, Stefan Filipkiewicz (1879-1944), who I've just discovered, on the anniversary of his birth, 28th July.

No great drama in his work, just the quiet, steady passion of a man for his art and sense of place; especially the Tatra Mountains; a passion that was recognized on being awarded the Gold Medal at the Universal Exhibition in Poznan, 1929.

Tatra Mountains seen from Olcza, 1924, above,

The Art of Caring

Painting; teaching art; contributing to a literary salon in Krakow, life ticked along nicely. Until 1939, when Poland was invaded, forcing Stefan to flee with his family to Hungary. Life took on a different shape and focus; he became the secretary of the Citizen's Committee for the Care of Polish Refugees, organizing assistance to military & civilians in need.

Laka, 1904                                                                                 Cottage in the Sun, 1904 (R)    

Forest Stream in Winter

Landscape of Escape

The committee also provided false documents and new identities for many of the Poles of Jewish descent. Around 30,000 Polish refugees were rescued, and 5,000 Jews saved. Sad to see the document, signed by Heinrich Himmler, ordering the execution of 13 of those committee members, at Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp, on August 23rd, 1944, including Stefan Filipkiewicz, who had helped save so many.

Gallery

There's a wonderful opportunity to share in the love he had for the landscape of his home-land throughout the seasons, just two minutes, and a wealth of artwork in this virtual presentation: