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Sonia Delaunay was a prominent artist and designer of the early 20th century. She was born in Ukraine and later became a naturalized French citizen. Delaunay was a key figure in the development of abstract art and worked in various mediums, including painting, textiles, and fashion. She was known for her vibrant use of color and geometric shapes, creating dynamic and visually striking compositions. Delaunay’s work was influenced by various art movements, including Cubism and Orphism. Her innovative approach to art and design made her a significant figure in the modern art world, and she continues to be celebrated for her contributions to abstract art.
Are you a fan of colors? When you create art, you might use one color and incorporate others to create a balanced composition. Color wheels can assist in identifying colors that complement each other. Artist Sonia Delaunay played a key role in establishing an entire art movement centered around color combinations. Today, let’s explore Delaunay, her life, and her artistic career together!
Sarah Stern was born on November 14, 1885, in Ukraine. Known as Sonia, she was raised by working-class Jewish parents. However, while her parents were at work, her uncle and aunt, Henri and Ann Terk, took care of her. Recognizing that they could provide her with a better life, they decided to adopt her. Sarah Stern was then renamed Sonia Terk, and they all lived in Russia.
In her new life, Sonia had the opportunity to receive a better education. She was sent to reputable schools where she received art education. After an art teacher recognized Sonia’s talent, she was sent to Germany. There, she studied at a fine arts academy for two years.
In 1905, she moved to Paris to continue her art studies. However, she did not agree with the teachings at the school and decided to pursue a career as an artist. In Paris, Sonia had the opportunity to view the works of many renowned artists at galleries. She particularly enjoyed studying the works of the Fauvism movement. These artists were known for their use of bold colors and their departure from the realism of the Impressionists. Their influence on Sonia is evident. She held her first solo exhibition in 1908.
During her time in Paris, Sonia met Robert Delaunay, who was also an artist. The two fell in love and got married in 1910. In addition to Sonia’s interest in Fauvism, she and Robert also studied Cubism and Futurism. Together, the Delaunays developed a new artistic style, which they named Orphism. The movement drew inspiration from the Greek hero Orpheus and focused on themes of color and music. Sonia developed her own branch of Orphism called Simultanism, which was based on the concept of “simultaneous contrast” in colors, as described in a study on color theory.
Sonia Delaunay applied her style to various forms of art. She designed fabrics that she used to create quilts, curtains, and lampshades. She also designed clothing, theater costumes, and sets. Her fabrics were sold in department stores worldwide.
In 1913, Delaunay collaborated with a writer to illustrate a book. The book was printed lengthwise on paper that was nearly seven feet long. Delaunay’s art was displayed next to the text and unfolded as the plot progressed. They also filled blank spaces in the text with color. When folded, the book fit into a cover that Delaunay had painted. Sonia referred to it as the first simultaneous book.
In the 1920s, Delaunay continued to create textiles featuring vibrant colors. She drew inspiration from the colorful crafts and clothing she remembered from her youth in Ukraine. She also incorporated colors and images from her surroundings. However, her career continued to be overshadowed by her husband’s.
In the 1930s, Delaunay began exploring rhythms in her artwork. She returned to painting when she and her husband collaborated on murals for the 1937 Paris Exposition. The murals were awarded a gold medal by officials.
Robert passed away in 1941. Sonia dedicated time to honoring his career and exhibiting his work. In the 1950s, Delaunay resumed solo exhibitions, with galleries around the world showcasing her art.
In the last two decades of her life, Delaunay accomplished several significant achievements. She became the first living woman to have her work displayed in a retrospective exhibit at the Louvre Museum. Additionally, she created the poster for the International Women’s Year in 1975 and was honored with the French Legion of Honor in the same year. Unfortunately, on December 5, 1979, Sonia Delaunay passed away in Paris.
If learning about Sonia Delaunay has sparked your interest in a career in art or fashion design, you might have a great idea that could start a new art movement!
To further explore your interest in Sonia Delaunay’s art and career, you can try out these activities:
1. Attempt to create art in Delaunay’s distinctive style. Gather art materials such as rulers, markers, crayons, pencils, and objects that can help you create circles (like a cup for tracing). Make sure to use vibrant colors! Art Projects for Kids has instructions to help you get started. You can also experiment with color pairings, just like Delaunay did. Invite your friends and family to a gallery walk to appreciate your new artwork.
2. Imagine if you could turn your art into fabrics. Would you design clothing? Or perhaps create coverings for furniture? Write a short narrative piece about how artistic creations can be transformed into other objects. Let your imagination run wild! You can even illustrate your words directly on the page, similar to Delaunay’s simultaneous book. Alternatively, you can use a Canva template to bring your words and illustrations to life. Don’t forget to share your writing and art with your loved ones!
3. Visit your local library to learn more about the art movements that influenced Delaunay, such as Fauvism, Cubism, and Futurism. Do you have a favorite? Can you identify similarities and differences between artists from these styles? Using materials you already have or a Canva template, create a chart that explores the unique characteristics of each style and what they have in common. Lead a discussion with your friends and family about your findings. See if anyone shares your favorites!
Sources of wonder:
– Britannica Dictionary (accessed May 19, 2023)
– Art History Unstuffed (accessed May 5, 2023)
– Masterworks Fine Art (accessed May 5, 2023)
– Artland Magazine (accessed May 5, 2023)
– Museum of Modern Art (accessed May 5, 2023)
– The Art Story (accessed May 5, 2023)
– Jewish Women’s Archive (accessed May 5, 2023)
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