Personality Squared

From February 23 to March 21, the Documents on Art reading room (No 306) hosts the book and illustrative exhibition "Personality Squared" dedicated to the 145th anniversary of the birth of the artist Kazimir Malevich (1878–1935).

One of the leaders of the Russian art avant-garde, Kazimir Malevich was not only an outstanding artist, but also an art theorist and philosopher. During his life, the artist worked in various areas of fine art. Starting his career in art with naturalism, Malevich eventually tried out Impressionism, Futurism and Cubism. In each of the genres, the artist's works had their own character and reflected the inner world of the creator.

Malevich became the founder of suprematism, one of the largest trends in abstract art. At the initial stage, this term, which went back to the Latin root - "supremus", meant the dominance, superiority of color over all other properties of painting. The trend of suprematism kicked up the foundations of realistic art, causing a lot of controversy and criticism. Malevich's ideas had a revolutionary impact on painting, architecture, applied arts, theater, and his “Black Square" became a source of powerful renewal of art of the twentieth century.

Malevich is always included in the list of the most controversial artists. While some people regard the painter as brilliant, his detractors criticise him for his primitive style and lack of imagination. Malevich's personality and works continue to pique interest, which is proof of the significant cultural importance of the artist.

The materials of the exhibition reveal the theoretical definitions of Malevich himself and set an important angle for understanding his creative path. The collected works of the master, notes, notes, articles, theoretical works, letters, memoirs of contemporaries, studies of his diverse creative activities allow us to trace the evolution that led the artist to the discovery of a new painting era and to the formula of the "Black Square".

Albums comprising copies of the artist's obscure early works will definitely pique the interest of visitors. The late Malevich also finished a cycle of images and portraits in which the tradition of classical art is enhanced by the experience of suprematism, which will not leave anyone indifferent.

Malevich's art was little studied and misunderstood by the general public for a very long time. Kazimir Malevich currently holds a distinctive place in the history of twentieth-century art.

For more info: (+375 17) 293 27 53.