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MISCHA ASKENAZY Biography |
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Mischa Askenazy was born near Odessa, Russia on February 22, 1888. At age four, Askenazy (originally Ashkenazy) immigrated with his parents to New York City where he spent his childhood. In 1913, he studied at the National Academy of Design under Jones, Volk, and Maynard. Upon winning a scholarship, he traveled to France and Italy for two years. A portrait commission brought him to Montecito, California in 1928 and, charmed by the climate, he decided to settle in Los Angeles. What we ultimately get from Askenazy is an earthy, warm-blooded realism from his Italian experience. His sensual painting style would eventually incorporate the Impressionist’s brushstroke, Fauve-like color, and an Expressionist’s candor. He remained there until his demise on July 13, 1961. His works, which show the influence of Cezanne, include portraits, figure studies, still lifes, and landscapes in oil, pastel, and watercolor.
Member: Society of Western Artists; California Art Club; Los Angeles Arts Association; Laguna Beach Arts Association. Exhibited: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts; National Academy of Design; Golden Gate International Exposition,1939; Oakland Museum, 1954 (solo). Awards: Pasadena Museum of Art, 1929; Los Angeles Museum of Art 1937; Oakland Museum 1952; de Young Museum, 1950, 1951, 1955; Laguna Beach Art Association, 1951-1953; Calif. Art Club, 1951-1955; Calif. State Fair, Sacramento, 1924, 1931, 1936, 1954, 1059. Works held: Laguna Museum of Art. |
