top of page
ree

Dear Friends,

can you believe it, March is already here, and Autumn has officially arrived in Australia!

March 1 marks the meteorological first day of Autumn, while the autumnal equinox will arrive on Thursday, March 21, signaling the end of one season and the start of another.

As we witness this transition, we are reminded that each season holds its beauty and wonder. Each one of you may have your favorite season. Some of you may love summer for its long days, warm sunshine, and opportunities to swim in the ocean, while others may admire spring for its awakening of nature from winter slumber. For me, Autumn is all about the colors!  The color kaleidoscope on display during this season is truly stunning. Deep reds, honey golds, oranges, and burnt siennas - you name it, I love it! You will find these colors all around me, from my wardrobe to my jewelry, and even on our kitchen plates and cups. And my favourite blanket? It is orange, of course!

These colors are not just a feast for the eyes, they are a reminder of the beauty of change and transformation. As I look out of my studio window, I realize that nature never stands still. The trees around me start to shed their leaves, letting go of the old to make way for the new. It is a powerful suggestion that we too can let go of things that no longer serve us. Just as the leaves fall to the ground, we can also shed our old habits and beliefs.

So, my friends, let's welcome Autumn with open hearts and minds. Let's embrace the beauty of change and all that this season has to offer. May this season be a reminder that with each ending comes a new beginning and that we have the power to create the life we desire.

And to get you in the Autumn spirit, I have created a few pieces that I hope you will enjoy.

So sit back, relax, and let's enjoy the beauty and magic of Autumn!


When you have a moment, I would love to hear from you. What are your favourite colors? Do you have a favourite season? Tell me all about it! And I was wondering, if you don't mind sharing, what is one habit you would like to transform? I am looking forward to hearing from you.







 
ree

Hello Friends,

welcome to my first blog.

In this post, I would like to share with you some personal insights into my family history.

As some of you may know, my father was an artist who lived and painted in Czechoslovakia between 1940 and 1981. His work was incredibly diverse, but one of his major periods was heavily influenced by the French artist, Fernand Leger. As it happens, Leger was born on February 4, 1881.

As I delved deeper into Leger's biography, I was struck by the similarities between his life and my father's, beyond their shared artistic style.

Both were born in rural environments and were discouraged from pursuing art by their families. However, their passion for creativity could not be contained, and they both embarked on extensive careers in a range of media.

They also branched out into other areas of creative expression, such as producing large-scale public art, book illustrations, mosaics, and murals, and even working in the film industry.

After World War II in 1945, they both joined the Communist Party due to their strong belief in the party's main political platform of social equality and unity.

Their art reflected a deep interest in technology and machinery, depicting speed and motion, as well as a strong commitment to social equality.

Leger's unique form of Cubism, characterized by cylindrical forms, bold colors, and strong black outlines, was a major influence on my father's work.

Fernand Leger died in 1955 when my dad was in his 30’s.  My father continued to create and he continued to develop his unique style.  

In 1968, after the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia, my father became disillusioned with the communist party's dream of unity and social equality, realizing it was a massive fabrication and deceit. He became a strong anti-communist and was subsequently banned by the regime from publicly displaying his art. As a result, his art reflected major transformation, as he explored new themes and styles, evolving from cubism to super-realism, incorporating elements of surrealism.

Reflecting on my father's and Leger's lives, I am struck by the power of passion and dedication. Despite facing obstacles and discouragement, they pursued their dreams and created works of art that continue to inspire us today.

I am sharing some of their paintings with you, and I am confident that you will see the similarities in their style and topics.

Finally, this story has inspired me to challenge myself and try to paint a picture in Leger's style, which was definitely out of my comfort zone.

Here it is, and I hope it inspires you to step out of your comfort zone and create something different this year.

Please let me know if you have any favorite artist or art style?

Do you have any favorite painting in your house?

If you would like leave your comments in the section below.


ree


 

© 2023 by Helena Foll. Powered and secured by Wix

bottom of page