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Alexandra EksterPainter, avant-garde artist.
Date of Birth: 06.01.1882
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Early Life and Artistic Training
- Avant-Garde Pioneer in Kyiv
- Travel and Collaboration
- Suprematism and Art Colonies
- Theater and Costume Design
- International Recognition
- Unique Books and Late Career
Early Life and Artistic Training
Alexandra Exter was born in Belostok, Russian Empire, in 1882. She studied at the prestigious Saint Olga's Gymnasium in Kyiv, graduating in 1899. From 1901 to 1903, and again as an auditor from 1906 to 1908, she attended Kyiv Art School.
Avant-Garde Pioneer in Kyiv
In 1903, Exter married lawyer Nikolai Evgenievich Echter. Around this time, she established a salon-workshop in her home, which became a meeting place for Kyiv avant-garde artists. In 1907, she traveled to Paris and studied at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière, where she befriended Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire.
Travel and Collaboration
From 1908 to 1914, Exter resided in various cities across the Russian Empire and Europe. She organized the exhibition "Zveno" in Kyiv in 1908 and met Italian Futurist painter Ardengo Soffici in 1912. Through Soffici, she connected with leading avant-garde artists in Italy and participated in their exhibitions.
Suprematism and Art Colonies
In 1915, Exter joined Kazimir Malevich's Supremus group. From 1915 to 1916, she collaborated with other Suprematist artists in the art communes of Verbovka and Skoptsy, working with peasants on artistic projects.
Theater and Costume Design
As a theater and costume designer, Exter significantly contributed to the production of plays by the Moscow Chamber Theater. She also designed costumes for films such as "Aelita." She participated in the design of the 1st All-Russian Agricultural Exhibition in 1923.
International Recognition
After 1924, Exter primarily resided outside of Russia. She exhibited her works in major cities worldwide, including Berlin, London, Paris, and New York. She also worked as a costume designer for the Moscow Fashion Studio and created the ceremonial uniforms for the Red Army.
Unique Books and Late Career
In the early 1930s, Exter began creating "Les Livres Manuscrits," unique, hand-made books with original artwork and authorial autographs. She died in 1949 in Fontenay-aux-Roses, near Paris.
