Themerson archive donated to Poland’s National Library
PR dla Zagranicy
John Beauchamp
29.01.2015 11:31
The archive of Stefan and Franciszka Themerson, one of the most fascinating proponents of the 20th-century Polish avant-garde art, has been donated to the National Library in Warsaw.
Materials from the archive of Franciszka and Stefan Themerson. Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara
The Themersons studied in Warsaw before the war and started their artistic careers, Stefan writing books for children and making experimental films and Franciszka focusing on illustration and graphic design.
The couple married in 1931. From 1940 until their death in 1988 they lived in London, publishing their books through their own Gaberbocchus Press and working in various art forms. Franciszka Themerson had numerous exhibitions in prestigious galleries in the UK, Poland and other countries.
The Themerson Archive was presented to the National Library by Franciszka’s niece, Jasia Reichardt. It comprises books, correspondence, manuscripts, original artwork and illustrations, printing plates, accounts, book reviews, publicity materials, catalogue, photographs, and personal memorabilia, all brought from London in 209 cardboard boxes and weighing 3.5 tonnes.
Polish Minister of Culture Małgorzata Omilanowska said during the presentation ceremony that it is a great thing to preserve the legacy of these outstanding artists, who co-created the European avant-garde of the twentieth century. (mk/jb)
Source: PAP