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Gustav Likan Abstract Paintings

Born in Yugoslavia in 1912, Gustav Likan early in life achieved international fame as an artist. He has long been noted in Europe for his portraits of royalty and heads of state. Since coming to America, his color genius caught fire and he emerged as one of the most important colorists of the twentieth century. Considered a prodigy, Likan won early acclaim in academic circles. So great was his grasp and talent, he flew through the ordinarily rigorous years of required draftsmanship and human figure drawing in half the usual time. Recognizing his extraordinary talents, the Munich Academy of Fine Arts bestowed the special honor of Master Student upon Likan. He was given his own private studio and model. Considering the orthodoxy and conservatism of this institution, the elevation of a mere boy to such a status stands as a tribute to genius discovered. Likan studied restoration under the best European masters of this rare art. This served to further develop his skills. Summers were spent in Holland, Italy and France...haunting the museums, sketching and painting 10 to 14 hours a day even during vacations. After earning his fame as a portrait artist, Likan immigrated to South America, where in 1948 he was hired by Eva Peron to paint murals for the country's churches, hospitals and schools, and then to the United States, arriving in Chicago in 1957. He was immediately appointed to the staff of the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts as an instructor, where he taught until 1967, and where his lushly colored canvases earned him the title "father of acrylics".
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Artist: Gustav Likan
"At the Table" abstract portrait of child with glass of red juice, blue napkin
"At the Table" abstract portrait of child with glass of red juice, blue napkin

"At the Table" abstract portrait of child with glass of red juice, blue napkin

By Gustav Likan 1

Located in Austin, TX

Canvas Size: 20 x 16 in. Framed Size: 24 x 20 in. Signed, bottom right. In this vibrant and stylized composition, Gustav Likan, often hailed as the "Father of Acrylics," showcases h...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Modern Gustav Likan Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic, Canvas

Figurative Farmer Holding Chickens and Pots
Figurative Farmer Holding Chickens and Pots

Figurative Farmer Holding Chickens and Pots

By Gustav Likan 1

Located in Austin, TX

By Gustav Likan Framed Size: 19.5" x 16" Figurative Farmer Holding Chickens and Pots. This piece uniquely focuses the subject by isolating him from his surroundings. About the Artist: Born in Yugoslavia in 1912, Gustav Likan achieved international fame as an artist early in life. He has long been noted in Europe for his portraits of royalty and heads of state. After coming to America, his color genius caught fire and he emerged as one of the most important colourists of the twentieth century. Likan studied restoration under the greatest European masters...

Category

20th Century Modern Gustav Likan Abstract Paintings

Materials

Watercolor, Archival Paper

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Gustav Likan abstract paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic Gustav Likan abstract paintings available for sale on 1stDibs. You can also browse by medium to find art by Gustav Likan in acrylic paint, paint, synthetic resin paint and more. Much of the original work by this artist or collective was created during the 20th century and is mostly associated with the abstract style. Not every interior allows for large Gustav Likan abstract paintings, so small editions measuring 29 inches across are available. Customers who are interested in this artist might also find the work of Edward Avedisian, Dora Maar, and Lou Fink. Gustav Likan abstract paintings prices can differ depending upon medium, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $7,500 and tops out at $7,500, while the average work can sell for $7,500.