Mark Gertler (1891-1939) was a British painter counted among the leading figures of the early 20th-century London art scene. Born in Spitalfields, London, to Jewish immigrant parents from Austria-Hungary, Gertler’s early life was marked by poverty. Nevertheless, his artistic talents were evident early on and led him to study at the Slade School of Fine Art.
Gertler’s painting style is characterized by its vivid use of color and a combination of Post-Impressionism and Cubism, although his works often retain a distinct figurative nature. His subject matter ranged from portraits to still lifes and landscapes, but all were approached with an intensity and emotive quality that made them uniquely his.
One of his most famous works is “Merry-Go-Round” (1916), an arresting and somewhat disturbing portrayal of figures on a carousel, which many interpret as a comment on the futility and horror of World War I. Throughout his career, he grappled with themes of love, war, and alienation.
Gertler was heavily influenced by fellow artists at the Slade, such as Dora Carrington and Paul Nash. His style, while unique, can be seen as a synthesis of various movements of the time, including the aforementioned Post-Impressionism and Cubism. Later British artists, particularly those interested in blending the abstract with the figurative, can trace inspiration back to Gertler’s pioneering works.
In summary, Mark Gertler remains a significant figure in British art, notable for his individualistic approach to themes of the early 20th century. Despite personal hardships and a life cut tragically short, his contributions to the British avant-garde movement remain influential and celebrated.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Gertler_(artist)
