Václav Špála

Václav Špála (1885–1946) was a Czech painter, graphic designer and illustrator. He studied at Prague Academy. His work he expose with “Stubborn” group. At the beginning of his career his work was influenced by Fauvism, later by Cubism. Since 1923 he painted mainly landscapes and still-lives. Václav Špála ranks among the greatest phenomena of Czech modern art. Czech society alternately rejected him and lavished uncritical praise on him, and Špála remains one of the most searched-for artists in the country. His paintings used to accompany many of us throughout our school years, decorating not only classrooms but also numerous offices and living rooms. Špála was one of the first artists to be recognised with the title National Artist, and was awarded it in 1946.

Since 1959, carries his name The Vaclav Spala Gallery.

• Vlastimil Košvanec