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.
Questions & Answers
Where can I see Mainie Jellett's artworks in a 3D gallery?
A virtual visit is possible: the 3D Museum page of Mainie Jellett presents the artist's works in a three-dimensional gallery.
In which movements did Mainie Jellett work?
The movements Mainie Jellett worked in can be seen on the artist's All Movements page, which groups the artworks by movement.
In which historical period did Mainie Jellett work?
Mainie Jellett worked in the Modern period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
