Wilhelm Kotarbiński

A Ukrainian and Polish artist and designer, who lived most of his life in Kiev, a bright representative of Art Nouveau.

His parents were Polish nobles from an ancient family and gave his son a good education. Wilhelm graduated from the classical gymnasium in Warsaw. During his studies, he attended an art school under the direction of Rafal Hadzevich, who taught him the skills of classical drawing and painting, and instilled in him a love for the art of the Renaissance.

Wilhelm Kotarbinski is the author of numerous philosophical and fantastic canvases, skillfully combining the features of Art Nouveau, Symbolism and a vivid personal style in his work. The artist was an outstanding draftsman, received many awards in Italy and the Russian Empire. In Kiev, Kotarbinski created paintings for the Vladimir Cathedral, which became the best example of church painting of the late nineteenth century and made the artist’s name popular throughout the country. The works of the Polish painter were in great demand; he carried out orders for the design of private houses of wealthy citizens. Some of his best works are 13 decorative panels for the house of patrons Khanenko in Kiev (now it is the building of the museum).

Key ideas :

– Wilhelm Kotarbinski’s work is very holistic and self-sufficient. The artist was not inclined to experiment with various trends in painting and constantly search for himself in art. From an early age, he realized his destiny, and persevered towards his goal, becoming an unsurpassed master in his own bright style.

– The basis of the artist’s works are often mythological, historical and religious (biblical) stories. In many paintings, there are a mystical beginning and fantastic elements. The heroes of Kotarbinski’s paintings are often nymphs, mermaids, and angels descended to earth, or simply stunningly beautiful women with a languid look and a noble posture. A rich imagination of the author surrounds them with mesmerizing landscapes, creating a sense of harmony and unity with nature, as in the plotted diptych “Two Beauties”.

– Kotarbinski was also a talented designer and a master of monumental painting. His work on the paintings of the Vladimir Cathedral in Kiev, which he performed together with Viktor Vasnetsov, amazes with its beauty, deep spirituality and scope. The best are considered frescoes “The Transfiguration of the Lord” and “The Last Supper”, “Pilate’s Court”, “Days of Creation” created together with Pavel Svedomsky. The artist also worked hard to decorate the interiors of private houses. He is the author of a series of decorative panels for the house of V. N. Hanenko, made in the art nouveau style. On these vertical canvases, Kotarbinski used a planar modeling, outlined by the smooth, twisty lines of the form, rich floral ornament and harmonious color palette. All these features make the author’s works the best examples of Modern in European art.