Ohakas, Valdur (1925 – 1998). Country Landscape (1950s)

Oil on plywood

50 x 68 cm

In the second half of the 20th century Valdur Ohakas (1925-1998) was among the most distinguished artists in Estonia. His paintings made him truly famous.

Valdur Ohakas studied at the Tartu art institute from 1944 until imprisoned. After World War II, when the Soviet society had been oppressed and tamed, Valdur Ohakas who had a background from Siberian prison camp (1949-1956). The graduates of the institution were known as the Pallas school, which was the original name of the institution. The students from those days formed the so-called Tartu circle of friends. Ülo Sooster was most well-known from the circle. They all considered themselves belonging to the Pallas school and expressed power critical positions regarding the established art norms.

Valdur Ohakas was a productive artist, but a vast part of his numerous creations were destroyed by fire in 1991. He always loved drawing – in nature to record the moment of inspiration, in a café waiting for someone, getting up from his easel in his atelier when some other shapes disturbed his mind. His drawings depict moods and they are as fresh and real as the artist’s breath.