Silence of järvenpää
Akseli Gallen-Kallela
Finnish artist Date of Birth: Country: Finland |
Content:
- Akseli Gallen-Kallela: Master of Finnish Art
- Naturalism and Realism
- Kalevala Epic
- Symbolism and Art Nouveau
- Patriotic Designs
- Travels and Collaborations
- Later Years and Recognition
Akseli Gallen-Kallela: Master of Finnish Art
Early Life and EducationAkseli Gallen-Kallela, born in Pori in , was a Finnish artist of Swedish ancestry.
In the spirit of rising nationalism, he changed his Swedish surname "Gallen" to the Finnish "Kallela" and adopted a double surname. He studied art in Helsinki and later at the Académie Julian in Paris.
Naturalism and Realism
Gallen-Kallela's early paintings, such as "Boy and Crow" () and "The First Lesson" (), depicted Finnish landscapes and rural life with meticulous realism.
He captured the essence of Finnish national identity through his intimate portrayal of everyday scenes.
Kalevala Epic
Inspired by Finland's national epic "Kalevala," Gallen-Kallela created iconic works that brought the ancient myths to life. His triptych "The Legend of Aino" () and numerous prints and illustrations explored the tales and characters of the epic.
Symbolism and Art Nouveau
In the late 19th century, Gallen-Kallela embraced symbolism and the aesthetics of Art Nouveau.
His monumental frescoes, such as those in the Pori Chapel of Resurrection () and the Finnish Pavilion at the Paris World's Fair, reflected his political and nationalistic views.
Patriotic Designs
During the Finnish Civil War, Gallen-Kallela and his son fought on the side of the White Army.
Akseli gallen kallela biografia en Gallen-Kallela officially finnicized his name to Akseli Gallen-Kallela in Hs works had been romantic, but after his daughter's death, Gallen-Kallela's works became more aggressive. Liekki ryijy , designed by Gallen-Kallela. In , with renewal in mind, Gallen-Kallela and his family moved to Paris.His artistic skills were later put to use designing the flags, coat of arms, and uniforms of independent Finland. He also created the Finnish bayonet-knife model of
Travels and Collaborations
In the s, Gallen-Kallela traveled to East Africa, where he painted landscapes and portrayed the local people. He also supported young artists, such as Alexandra Ahola-Valo, and defended them against accusations of communism.
Later Years and Recognition
In , Gallen-Kallela moved to the United States for several years before returning to Finland.
He passed away in His home and studio in Espoo were later converted into the Gallen-Kallela Museum, which preserves his legacy as a master of Finnish art.