Mainie Jellett

Early Life and Education

• Born: Dublin, Ireland (April 29, 1897)
• Died: February 16, 1944
• Parents: William Morgan Jellett (barrister and MP), Janet McKenzie Stokes.
• Early artistic training with Elizabeth Yeats, Sarah Cecilia Harrison, and Mary Manning.
• Studied at the Metropolitan School of Art in Dublin (teachers included William Orpen).
• Attended Westminster Technical Institute in London under Walter Sickert.
• Won the Taylor Art Scholarship in 1920.

Parisian Influences and Artistic Development

• Moved to Paris with Evie Hone in 1921.
• Studied cubism under André Lhote and Albert Gleizes.
• Exploration of non-representational art, influenced by Cézanne's analytical approach.
• Developed a distinctive style incorporating rhythm, colour, and abstract forms.
• Her artistic philosophy involved three revolutions inspired by Sickert, Lhote, and Gleizes.

Key Works and Artistic Style

• Decoration (1923): One of the first abstract paintings exhibited in Ireland, caused considerable controversy.
• Artwork often features religious titles and icon-like qualities despite being non-representational.
• Style characterized by arcs of colour, rhythmic lines, and a sense of abstract perspective.
• Exploration of light and color to create depth and intensity.

Recognition and Historical Significance

• Early proponent of abstract art in Ireland.
• Championed the modernist movement despite facing criticism.
• Co-founded the Irish Exhibition of Living Art in 1943 with Evie Hone, Louis le Brocquy, Jack Hanlon, and Norah McGuinness.
• Her work is present in museums throughout Ireland.
• Jellett believed artists were essential for societal spiritual health.
• Significant figure in Irish art history, bridging traditional and modern artistic approaches.

Legacy

• Mainie Jellett's pioneering spirit helped pave the way for abstract art to be accepted in Ireland.
• Her dedication to promoting modernism influenced generations of Irish artists.
• She remains a significant figure in the history of Irish art, recognized for her innovative style and unwavering commitment to artistic expression.