Early Life and Education
- Born: Dublin, Ireland (April 29, 1897)
- Died: February 16, 1944
- Parents: William Morgan Jellett (barrister and MP), Janet McKenzie Stokes.
- Early artistic training with Elizabeth Yeats, Sarah Cecilia Harrison, and Mary Manning.
- Studied at the Metropolitan School of Art in Dublin (teachers included William Orpen).
- Attended Westminster Technical Institute in London under Walter Sickert.
- Won the Taylor Art Scholarship in 1920.
Parisian Influences and Artistic Development
- Moved to Paris with Evie Hone in 1921.
- Studied cubism under André Lhote and Albert Gleizes.
- Exploration of non-representational art, influenced by Cézanne's analytical approach.
- Developed a distinctive style incorporating rhythm, colour, and abstract forms.
- Her artistic philosophy involved three revolutions inspired by Sickert, Lhote, and Gleizes.
Key Works and Artistic Style
- Decoration (1923): One of the first abstract paintings exhibited in Ireland, caused considerable controversy.
- Artwork often features religious titles and icon-like qualities despite being non-representational.
- Style characterized by arcs of colour, rhythmic lines, and a sense of abstract perspective.
- Exploration of light and color to create depth and intensity.
Recognition and Historical Significance
- Early proponent of abstract art in Ireland.
- Championed the modernist movement despite facing criticism.
- Co-founded the Irish Exhibition of Living Art in 1943 with Evie Hone, Louis le Brocquy, Jack Hanlon, and Norah McGuinness.
- Her work is present in museums throughout Ireland.
- Jellett believed artists were essential for societal spiritual health.
- Significant figure in Irish art history, bridging traditional and modern artistic approaches.
Legacy
- Mainie Jellett's pioneering spirit helped pave the way for abstract art to be accepted in Ireland.
- Her dedication to promoting modernism influenced generations of Irish artists.
- She remains a significant figure in the history of Irish art, recognized for her innovative style and unwavering commitment to artistic expression.
