Ohakas, Valdur (1925 – 1998). Landscape with Lake. (1984)

Oil on cardboard

40 x 50

Lower right – VOhakas 84

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, but he was also known as a passionate drawer. 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), dared to visualise in his works the surrounding poverty in a manner that approached existential generalisation.

Valdur Ohakas studied at the Tartu art institute from 1944 until imprisoned. 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.