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of art by this artist.
Alfons Walde Biography
Alfons Walde, born on February 8, 1891, in Oberndorf, a small village near Kitzbühel in the Tyrolean Alps of Austria, emerged as one of the most significant Austrian painters and architects of the 20th century. His life and work were deeply intertwined with the Tyrolean landscape, which not only shaped his thematic focus but also his stylistic development. Walde's artistic journey began early in his life, showing a striking interest in painting during his school days in Innsbruck, where he produced his first watercolor and tempera paintings.
In 1910, Walde embarked on a formal education in architecture at the Technische Hochschule in Vienna. This period was crucial for his artistic development, as Vienna was a vibrant center for the arts, home to the Secession movement, and artists like Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka. Despite his architectural studies, Walde's passion for painting never waned. He was particularly influenced by the late impressionist work of Max von Esterle and the expressionistic style of Egon Schiele, which is evident in his early works characterized by a vibrant light atmosphere and a pointillistic style.
Walde's early career was marked by his participation in exhibitions, such as his first show in Innsbruck in 1911 and his presentation at the prestigious Vienna Secession exhibition in 1913. His experiences during World War I, where he served as a Tyrolean Kaiserschütze in the high mountains, further deepened his connection to the Tyrolean landscape, which would become a central theme in his work.
After the war, Walde returned to Kitzbühel and devoted himself entirely to painting. He became known for his winter landscapes and depictions of Tyrolean peasant life, which were characterized by their radiant colors and expressive style. His works from this period, such as "Frühling in Tirol" (Springtime in Tyrol) and "Einsame Hausung" (Secluded Dwelling), showcase his ability to capture the essence of the Tyrolean Alps and its people with a unique blend of realism and expressionism.
Walde's paintings of the 1920s and 1930s, particularly his winter scenes, played a significant role in shaping the image of Tyrol as a winter sports destination. He skillfully depicted skiers and the bustling ski resorts of Kitzbühel, combining his expressive painting style with the dynamic energy of winter sports. These works not only reflect Walde's personal passion for skiing but also his keen observation of the changing social and cultural landscape of Tyrol.
Despite the challenges posed by the political climate of the 1930s and the impact of National Socialism on Austria, Walde continued to work and even faced scrutiny from the Gestapo. However, his artistic output remained strong, and he continued to exhibit his work both nationally and internationally.
Walde's contributions to art extend beyond his paintings. He was also an accomplished architect, graphic designer, and publisher. He designed several country houses and was involved in the development of the Hahnenkamm cable car stations near Kitzbühel. Moreover, Walde's posters promoting Tyrol as a winter sports destination are considered iconic examples of graphic design.
Alfons Walde passed away on December 11, 1958, in Kitzbühel, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to be celebrated in Austria and beyond. His work is a testament to his profound connection to the Tyrolean landscape and its people, capturing the beauty, tradition, and spirit of his homeland with a distinctive artistic voice. Today, Walde's paintings are highly regarded and sought after by collectors, and his contributions to Austrian art and culture are remembered through exhibitions and scholarly research.
Alfons Walde Quotes and Sales
of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
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