Alphonse Mucha is largely responsible for what we know has Art Nouveau. Coming at the beginning of the 20th century was unfortunate timing for him though; has interest in Art Nouveau was replaced by 20th century's modernism. Rendering his style academic and old fashioned, and ultimately leading to an under appreciation for his masterpiece: The Slav Epic. Here is a quote from Mucha on that work:
"Once again I was doing historical painting, but this time not about Germany but a brotherly Slav nation. Describing the glorious and tragic events in its history, I thought of the joys and sorrows of my own country and of all the Slavs. And so, before I had completed the south Slav murals, I had made up my mind about my future big work which was to become 'The Slav Epic' and I saw it as a great and glorious light shining into the souls of all people with its clear ideals and burning warnings."
(Alphonse Mucha, quoted in p. 62 - Mucha, 2005 Grange Books)
He began work on The Slav Epic in 1910 and continued through 1928. Czech out (pun intended) this web page: The Slav Epic, The Magnum Opus of Alphonse Mucha..., where you can read the history of the monumental work and also view pictures of the paintings.
I champion the efforts of modernism in modern culture, but also Mucha's work has one of the last great classical-style master painters. My family heritage on my father's side is entirely Czech, or rather the three provinces of Moravia, Slovakia, and Bohemia, so how cannot I not champion one of the masterworks celebrating the history of my people?
I champion the efforts of modernism in modern culture, but also Mucha's work has one of the last great classical-style master painters. My family heritage on my father's side is entirely Czech, or rather the three provinces of Moravia, Slovakia, and Bohemia, so how cannot I not champion one of the masterworks celebrating the history of my people?
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