Janis Pauluks (1906-1984)

Outstanding painter, man – legend.

Jânis Pauïuks worked in oil, experimented in sphere of painting technology much. He painted landscapes, still-lifes, figurative compositions, seascapes, portraits and self-portraits. Made abstract paintings, but not denied real features of nature. Painted landscapes filled by the sun in juicy color tones creating sensations of alarm, continuous movement and vital pleasure. For painting 1930-1940 the brown and grey cores of tone are characteristic. In works of 1950 years color become the main mean of expression of the form. The manner of painting becomes more free, a palette - brighter. In 1970-1980 paintings are dynamical, a wide spectrum of a palette, free, masterly brushwork is characteristic.

Jânis Pauïuks was born on September 2, 1906 in Riga.

From 1924 to 1939 (with breaks) worked as the calligrapher and drawer in a Land Surveying Department.

In 1938 Jânis Pauïuks entered at the Latvian Academy of Art (he was excluded in 1941, has renewed studying in 1944, but in 1945 left studies). After Academy he has devoted himself only to painting.

In exhibitions the artist participated since 1945 (in Riga). Personal exhibitions are organized in Moscow (1954), Jurmala (1964, together with K.Tsirulis), Riga (1958, 1981). Memorable exhibitions - in Riga (1986, 1991, 1992, 1996, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006), Tartu (1987), Vilnius (1988), Jurmala (1989.)

Jânis Pauïuks was a member of the Latvian SSR Artists’ Union since 1945; he was repeatedly excluded and restored.

The artist awarded the letter of honour of Presidium of Latvian SSR Supreme Council for excellent achievements in development of the Latvian art and in connection with decade of the Latvian literature and art in Moscow (1956), a badge "For creative achievements" of the Ministry of Culture of the USSR and the letter of honour of Advice of the Latvian Republican TRADE Union (1981), the diploma and a medal of the Latvian SSR Artists’ Union for excellent creative achievement (1981).

Jânis Pauluks died on June 23, 1984 in Riga.