Theo Tobiasse (1927 - 2012), Frankrike

Théo Tobiasse is known for his expressive figurative paintingsand printscentered on themes of exileand the expat Jewish experience. The artist was born in Jaffa, Mandatory Palestine (present-day Israel) to Lithuanianimmigrants. The family settled in Paris in 1931 and, a decade later, lived in hiding for two years during the Nazi occupation of the city, with Tobiasse passing the time by making drawings. After the war, he worked as a graphic designerand produced tapestries, stage sets, and window decorations for luxury goods companies for nearly 15 years before turning to painting full-time. He won first prize at an exhibition of young painters in 1960. Tobiasse’s paintings derive their imagery from the artist’s childhoodin Lithuania and France and his experience of fear and isolation during the war. Their religious iconographyand Biblical allusionsinvite comparisons to Marc Chagall.