Romania #1859 (1966) – Country House, Gheorghe Petrascu (1872-1949)

Gheorghe Petrașcu (1872–1949) was a Romanian painter associated with the Romanian Impressionist movement. Here are some key points about Gheorghe Petrașcu:

1. Early Life and Education: Petrașcu was born on February 22, 1872, in Bucharest, Romania. He studied at the National School of Fine Arts in Bucharest, where he later became a professor.
2. Artistic Style: Petrașcu was influenced by Impressionism, and his works often featured vibrant colors, loose brushstrokes, and a focus on capturing the effects of light. He embraced the plein air painting technique, working outdoors to capture the essence of landscapes.
3. Themes and Subjects: Petrașcu was known for his landscapes, often depicting scenes from the Romanian countryside. He painted rural landscapes, villages, and the simple beauty of everyday life.
4. Exhibitions: Petrașcu exhibited his works both in Romania and internationally. He participated in various exhibitions, contributing to the recognition of Romanian art on the global stage.
5. Teaching Career: In addition to his artistic pursuits, Petrașcu had a significant impact as an art educator. He taught at the National School of Fine Arts in Bucharest, where he influenced the next generation of Romanian artists.
6. Awards and Recognition: Petrașcu received numerous awards and honors during his career. His contributions to Romanian art and culture were acknowledged both nationally and internationally.
7. Legacy: Gheorghe Petrașcu is considered one of the leading figures of Romanian Impressionism. His works continue to be appreciated for their vibrant colors, atmospheric effects, and poetic interpretation of the Romanian landscape.

Gheorghe Petrașcu passed away on March 12, 1949, leaving behind a significant body of work that reflects his dedication to capturing the beauty of Romania through the lens of Impressionism. His paintings are held in various museums and private collections in Romania.