RUSSIAN SOCIAL REALISM and IMPRESSIONISM of the 20th century

Already as early as 1988 Gebr. Douwes Fine Art introduced the Russian School of Painting to the Dutch art market.  Every year since we have presented a catalogue at the PAN containing anywhere from 50 to 90 paintings, often accompanied by art-historical notes and information about the artists and their roots.

About the important question whether Social Realism is an art movement or a dictated style; we have only been enlightened during the last couple of years by art historians like Matthew Cullerne Bown who published several important books on this subject.

The former Soviet Union has always been a melting pot of international "avant-garde" painters, who participated in art movements like Parisian Cubism, German Expressionism and Italian Futurism.  With their ideals and artistic imagery they became part of socialistic politics, which culminated in the revolutionary outburst in 1917.  However, shortly after Lenin came to power this modern movement, including Malevich' Suprematism, and Tatlin's Constructivism, was abolished.

Gradually, during the 1920s, the new form of art became Social Realism.  This style of painting was allowed to flourish for more than half a century because the Soviet system did not allow foreign influence at any level.  During this period up-and-coming artists were obliged to attend the disciplinary academies of art.  It was clear that artistic survival within the system called for patience and a creative spirit.  For those who did not want to subject themselves to this communistic atmosphere, there ,was always the escape towards the "neutral" subject matter of landscapes, portraits, nudes, still-lifes, ballet and genre scenes.

In search of their artistic freedom painters realised that an impressionistic brushstroke served their choice of subject matter best.  Towards the 1940s and 1950s their palette became more colourful.  Especially after Stalin's death in 1953, the characteristics of Social Realism became the norm.

After the liberalisation of the former Soviet Union during the mid 1980s the search for talent and quality amongst the art community was initiated by curious art critics, collectors and museum curators from abroad.  To this first group of connoisseurs it was clear that talent, creativity, imagination and freedom of spirit could not be manipulated by the political system.

From a historical point of view, Social Realist art has been the most important movement during the 20th century.  After all, it represents the spirit of society over several generations and should never experience any limitations.

In various countries throughout the world, this period of Russian Socialist Art and Social Realism is important enough to inspire the astute collector and feed museum interest.  Formidable collections and exhibitions have since been initiated in Japan, the USA and Europe. For many art lovers this could be the first introduction to this suppressed period in the history of art.  It has become clear during the past decade, that there is a growing public interest and recognition of Social Realism.

The aspect of "every day life", illustrated through colourful and emotional paintings, shows the loyalty, temperament and endurance of Russian characteristics: love for life, for the people and their native country!  It is our fondest wish to enhance cultural support by stimulating a true passion for collecting these original "documents" worldwide!

Evert J.M. Douwes jr.