godfather of art deco: erte
Early 1980's photo by LORD SNOWDON from 'Snowdon Sittings 1979-1983
“The artist must create a spark before he can make a fire and before art is born, the artist must be ready to be consumed by the fire of his own creation.”
Hey there, my art savants!
I'm so excited to let you in on one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century, Erte. You may know him by his birth name, Romain de Tirtoff, but either way, this guy was a force to be reckoned with in the world of art deco. Erte was born in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1892, but it wasn't long before he was making waves in the fashion and art scenes in Paris. He quickly became known for his elegant illustrations and designs, and his work for Harper's Bazaar during the 1920s and 1930s solidified him as a leading figure in the art deco movement. He was a master of multiple mediums, including sculpture, painting, and graphic design, and his work was characterized by a strong sense of movement, bold lines, and striking use of color. He was particularly known for his use of the Art Deco style, which was characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and stylized forms. His artworks were not just limited to a single subject matter, but also has a range of fashion, theater, and advertising designs.
But let's be real, no artist's journey is a smooth ride. Erte faced his fair share of setbacks, from financial struggles to the devastation of World War II. But you know what they say, when life gives you lemons... make a killer art deco illustration. Erte was able to overcome these challenges and his dedication to his craft is truly inspiring.
Now, I know you may be thinking, "But how does this all relate to me?" Well, let me tell you, Erte's influence can be seen all around us. From fashion to film, architecture to... well, more fashion, Erte's style and aesthetic continue to be referenced and celebrated. Even Madonna and Tim Burton have paid homage to the man. His work continues to inspire new artists and designers, and his style remains a popular choice for those looking for a timeless, elegant look.
One of his most famous pieces is "The Alphabet Suite" which was a series of 26 illustrations, each representing a letter of the alphabet. This series was widely acclaimed for its intricate and detailed designs, showcasing Erte's mastery of form and composition. Each letter in the alphabet suite was crafted with precision and perfection, and it was a true representation of Erte's artistic skill and vision. Erte's design philosophy is evident in the intricate details and imaginative forms present in his work. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of passion and dedication in the creative process is reflected in the way he approaches his art. Erte's designs are not only visually stunning but also thought-provoking, encouraging the viewer to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper meaning behind the work. He believed that for an artist to create something truly extraordinary, they must be willing to fully immerse themselves in their craft, even if it means sacrificing their own personal desires and comforts. This selflessness is evident in the level of detail and care that he put into every piece he created.
So, what's the takeaway here? Well, for me, it's all about embracing individuality and self-expression. Erte's work encourages us to be daring and timeless, to break away from conformity and express ourselves freely. And you know what? I think that's something we can all get behind. So, let's channel our inner Erte and make our own mark on the world, however big or small it may be.
~Vonyea
Erte’s “The Alphabet Suite”
