Maria Nicz-Borowiak
Maria Nicz-Borowiak was a Polish painter and printmaker. The painting we present today has clear divisions and flat color patches that evoke Neoplasticism. Contrary to the principles of this movement, however, the artist introduced diagonal lines and arc-based forms, suggesting spatial depth. She added figural elements to the abstract composition: a fish suspended in space and a female nude shaped like a fish create a Surrealist whole. Nicz-Borowiak was a leading protagonist of Polish Constructivism and a member of the collectives Blok (1924–1926) and Praesens (1926–1930). She combined inspiration from various avant-garde art movements in her works with motifs drawn from still lifes and everyday surroundings.
The work is part of the collection at the Museum of Art in Łódź; it can be viewed in the permanent Ways of Seeing. The Collection of the Museum of Art in Łódź exhibition, which we highly recommend. This museum is one of the oldest institutions in the world dedicated to presenting modern art, with extensive holdings. Don't miss it while visiting Poland!
P.S. This masterpiece is included in our new set of Women Artists postcards. :)
P.P.S. Learn more how the works of Kandinsky and Strzemiński helped to establish two revolutionary museums!