WILLY SEILER - German (1903-1988)
WILLY SEILER, renowned German artist, was born in Dresden Germany in 1903. He is today widely known for his fine etchings.
He found his initial schooling in art in Dresden and Munich, and was later followed by a 2-year stint in Paris. He is today widely known for his fine etchings. After touring Europe extensively, Willy left Germany in 1928. This was principally caused by the disruption of his plans by WWII and subsequent unsettled conditions on the Continent there after. Willy then began a life of art and travel. Over his lifetime Seiler visited more than 44 countries, some of them several times.
He exhibited in Rome and Paris, in Jerusalem and Teheran, in San Francisco and Mexico City, and other far more secluded locales. His work was received enthusiastically everywhere he went, and found acclaim in the highest circles; from maharajahs in India, to princes and leading officials worldwide.
After years of globe trekking Seiler's second sojourn in Japan turned out to be a more permanent one. After the end of World War II the highly versatile artist instructed at the American Army College there with outstanding success.
Today Seiler's etchings have earned him a wide spread reputation. As the creator of numerous etchings of picturesque Japanese and Korean subjects, he has captured the quaintness of the East. He used the distinctive copperplate medium of the West with superb draftsmanship, to produce an art of rare beauty with the feel of the East.
In Japan, Seiler's etchings have become well known to art connoisseurs of many nationalities. In the 1940 and 50s, as well as today, members of the Allied Forces have been captivated by the warmth and realism of his creations.
Seiler's etching of General Mac Arthur, made from life in 1951, was praised as an outstanding work by the General, and by Pacific Stars and Stripes. Many prominent persons were captured by the outstanding artistry of Willy Seiler. His later works included a portrait etching of South Korean President Syngman Rhee. It was made in 1957 when Seiler visited Korea on a special assignment for Pacific Stars and Stripes. His sketching trip to Okinawa followed.
Next to his etchings, he is best known for his "Willy Seiler Dolls". These are cute, authentically costumed little figures representing everyday characters of Japan, Korea and Okinawa. Occasionally Seiler would work the face or characteristics of his daughter into his later works.
Willy Seiler passed in 1988 leaving a legacy of art to mark his path.
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