Aleksandra Belcova

Show notes

Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we'll be diving into the fascinating life and work of Aleksandra Belcova, a remarkable artist of the Art Deco movement. Born in 1892 in Belarus, Belcova became a key figure in Latvian art and an important representative of interwar modernism. She was closely associated with the Riga Group of Artists, a movement that brought together some of the most innovative thinkers and creatives of the time.

In this episode, we’ll explore Belcova’s life, from her artistic studies in St. Petersburg to her travels and eventual settlement in Riga, where she lived and worked until her death in 1981. We will also delve into the cultural and social climate of the early 20th century, a time marked by dramatic political and artistic changes, which deeply influenced Belcova’s style and outlook.

Her artistic journey evolved from a classical approach to a more avant-garde style, blending Art Deco influences with elements of Cubism and Futurism. Some of her most notable works, such as her portraits and figurative compositions, are celebrated for their striking elegance, strong geometrical forms, and subtle use of color. Belcova’s paintings, drawings, and illustrations often depict women, sometimes in intimate settings, capturing the spirit and complexity of her time.

Join us as we discuss her most significant works, including her portraits of Latvian cultural figures, her experimentation with graphic art, and her contributions to Latvian modernism. We’ll also touch on her legacy, examining how her works have influenced modern Latvian art and why she remains an important figure in the history of 20th-century art.

Stay tuned for an insightful look into the life and art of Aleksandra Belcova!