Telesforas Valius, The last morning III

Telesforas Valius (1914-1977)
The last morning III
1976, pop., colour lithograph, 58,42 × 44,45, print 1/73
Sign. AD: Telesforas Valius /76 /Paris

Telesfas Valius's work is one of the most significant Lithuanian graphic phenomena of the 20th century. His artistic path stretches from early engravings inspired by folk aesthetics to mature, colourful, more modern prints created in emigration. All of his work is united by an intense emotional code, the mythology of the Samogitian world and a deep reflection on human existence.
His early woodcuts are characterised by the influence of folk art, expressive black-and-white contrast and dramatic themes related to the experience of war, suffering and loss. During his emigration, Valius expanded his techniques - lithography and monotype introduced colour, looser composition and elements of abstraction, but retained a deep emotional connection to Lithuania, especially Žemaitija. His work combines archaic imagination with modern solutions to form, and he is considered one of the most important Lithuanian graphic artists in the diaspora.