Portrait of Rolf de Maré (1888-1964), Nils Dardel

Portrait of Rolf de Maré (1888-1964), Nils Dardel

Rolf de Maré (1888-1964) was a Swedish art collector, patron, and cultural impresario renowned for his profound influence on the avant-garde art scene during the early 20th century. Born on August 26, 1888, in Stockholm, Sweden, De Maré was the scion of a wealthy family but chose to diverge from traditional pursuits.

De Maré's passion for the arts blossomed during his youth, leading him to study dance, theater, and the visual arts across Europe. In 1910, he made a pivotal trip to Paris, where he encountered the groundbreaking Ballets Russes led by Serge Diaghilev. This encounter would significantly impact his life.

Upon returning to Sweden, De Maré became captivated by the avant-garde movements sweeping through Europe. In 1913, he founded the Ballets Suédois, a groundbreaking dance company that combined modernist aesthetics with innovative choreography. The troupe featured influential artists like Jean Cocteau, Fernand Léger, and Pablo Picasso, and their performances gained international acclaim.

De Maré's artistic endeavors extended beyond dance. He developed a passion for collecting contemporary art, amassing a remarkable collection of avant-garde paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. His collection included works by artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, Giorgio de Chirico, and Chaim Soutine, solidifying his reputation as a patron of the avant-garde.

In the 1920s, De Maré established the Théâtre de l'Étoile, a Parisian venue that showcased innovative theater productions, further contributing to the cultural landscape of the time. His commitment to the avant-garde was unwavering, and he used his wealth and influence to support emerging artists and avant-garde movements.

As a result of his vast contributions to the arts, Rolf de Maré's legacy endures as a vital figure in the history of avant-garde art and performance. He continued his patronage and collecting throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on the world of modern art. Rolf de Maré passed away on December 29, 1964, but his impact on the avant-garde movement remains an enduring testament to his visionary spirit and dedication to the arts.

Nils Dardel, a Swedish surrealist and modernist painter of the early 20th century, is renowned for his intriguing and thought-provoking artworks. His paintings, characterized by a unique blend of dreamlike imagery and sharp social commentary, offer viewers a captivating glimpse into the complexities of human existence.

Dardel's oeuvre features a wide range of subjects, from enigmatic portraits to fantastical landscapes, all infused with a surreal twist. His mastery of technique, particularly in the use of color and light, creates a sense of otherworldly beauty that draws the viewer into his imaginative realms.

Through his art, Nils Dardel challenged norms, sparking contemplation and dialogue. His paintings continue to intrigue and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of surrealism and modern art.