|
|
|
Alphonse
Maria Mucha (1860 - 1939)
|
Probably the most recognized artist of the Art Nouveau era, Mucha was
born in Moravia and moved to Vienna where he worked as a scene painter
in the theater during his late teens.
He arrived in Paris in 1887 and studied at the Academie Julian and Academie
Colarossi. His first poster for Sarah Bernhardt (1894) rocketed him to
fame, indeed his interpretation of Art Nouveau was called "le style Mucha".
He continued to design jewelry, theater costumes and sets, household items
and furniture, but his primary genius was in the graphic arts.
Mucha spent several years in America teaching, painting portraits, and
working in the theater. He returned to Europe and spent his final years
in Prague. Mucha's Art Nouveau legacy can be seen in the many books and
albums he illustrated, including "Les Maitres de l'Affiche" 1896-1900;
"Ilsee Princesse de Tripoli," 1897; "L'Estampe Moderne"
1897-1899; "Le Pater" 1899; "Documents Decoratifs," 1902;
and, "Figures Decoratives" 1905.
Back
to Artist's Biographies
|
