The Eschatological Realism of Jerzy Nowosielski
Mieczysław Porębski
The life and work of Polish painter Jerzy Nowosielski are discussed at length in an attempt to elucidate the apparent contradictions both. Nowosielski, born Cracow, is best known for his vivid, bold, very modern icon paintings, particular those decorating interiors several architecturally striking churches Poland. To understand reasons interest icons artistic choices he makes painting them, some knowledge personal background, as well philosophical spiritual concerns, required. At root Nowosielski's esoteric creative vision own historical analysis cultural origins Europe, which sees a fruitful mixture traditions East West. attraction artist, whose mother was Roman Catholic father Eastern Rite, i.e., Uniate, Orthodox Church also plays crucial and, scheme things, perfectly logical role thinking. For him Orthodoxy integral part rich European heritage, heritage has developed out tension cross-fertilization between waxing waning cultures, as, example, when Classical Greek world gave way Empire, leadership early Christian transferred from Rome Byzantium, or when, with decline Byzantine empire, Hellenistic revival laid groundwork Italian Renaissance. extraordinary beauty production - includes secular subjects merits this in-depth look complex theological reasoning behind it, but equally today idea present future Europe that all stronger its inherent contrasts.
Artibus et Historiae