The Magic Triik of Making Things Appear!
Another Eastern European gem: Estonian artist Nikolai Voldemar Triik (1884-1940), born on this day, 7th August. He was always going to be an artist, no matter what. When he was expelled from St. Petersburg Art & Industry Academy for participating in a student strike during the 1905 Revolution, he took private lessons until he was able to return. Then studied in Finland, followed by moving to Paris with his wife, where he took courses at 3 different art schools. Eventually, all his studies led to his giving lessons in his own studio in Tartu before going fully freelance in 1928. He rose in the ranks of his own country's Art Establishment. It's a shame we don't hear so much about these artists in our schools, but it was a little tricky trying to find information in English. (L) Self-Portrait, 1929
Above: Old Garden
Portraits:
(L) Einar Hyllestedti (R) V. Martna
Fantasy
Tamaara Tants I
Tamaara Tants II
Industry:
Tartu Vaade
Landscape with Architecture:
View of a Small Town
The thing that strikes me about his work is that it doesn't matter what subject or genre he tackles: portrait; landscape; mythological; symbolic; even industrial & floral arrangements - they're all equally assured; expressive and powerful - A real testimony to what can be achieved with a steadfast focus, unhampered by politics; war; poverty; family; or crippling self-doubt - a dedicated commitment to his art practice. Happy to have found him and his work. Enjoy!
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