David Kakabadze
David Kakabadze (1889–1952) was a pioneering Georgian painter, graphic artist, and art theorist, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Georgian modernism. Born in the village of Kukhi in the Imereti region of Georgia, Kakabadze grew up in a culturally rich environment that deeply influenced his artistic development. He initially studied natural sciences at the University of St. Petersburg, which provided him with a strong foundation in scientific principles, such as optics and color theory, that would later inform his artistic practice. During his time in St. Petersburg, he also attended art classes and became involved in avant-garde circles, developing a keen interest in blending scientific knowledge with visual art.
Kakabadze's work is characterized by a synthesis of Western European modernist movements—such as Cubism, Constructivism, and Futurism—with traditional Georgian motifs and cultural elements. His paintings often feature abstract compositions that explore geometric forms, light, and color, as seen in his series on floral forms and sails. In addition to his painting, Kakabadze was also a prominent art theorist and experimented with various media, including photography and filmmaking, further emphasizing his innovative approach to art. After returning to Georgia in the 1920s, he became a professor at the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts, where he influenced a new generation of Georgian artists. Despite facing political persecution during the Soviet era, his work has continued to be celebrated for its originality and its contribution to the development of modern art in Georgia and beyond. His artworks are housed in major collections, including the Georgian National Museum in Tbilisi.
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Full Name: David Kakabadze
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Birth and Death: 1889–1952
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Profession: Painter, Graphic Artist, Art Theorist
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Influences: Cubism, Constructivism, Georgian cultural motifs
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Legacy: Renowned for blending Western modernism with Georgian traditions; works are housed in the Georgian National Museum and other significant collections.
