Jewish Painters in Paris: Amedeo Modigliani and Chaim Soutine (In Two Parts)

Despite pervasive anti-Semitism at the turn of the 20^th Century in France, Jewish émigré artists Amedeo Modigliani and Chaïm Soutine flourished, helping to define Modernism. Part I of this presentation will acquaint you with Modigliani, the quintessentially unconventional artist, born in Italy, who produced ravishing paintings and expressive sculptures. Part II will introduce you to his equally innovative friend Soutine, an impoverished refugee from the Pale of Settlement. Soutine’s radical ideas, use of blazing color, and ability to express emotion on canvas have distinguished him as a singular phenomenon. Each part of this presentation can be enjoyed on its own, but together they convey a comprehensive picture of the dawn of the avant-garde.