Tess Jaray was born on December 31st, 1937

Tess Jaray: The Visionary Painter and Printmaker

Tess Jaray is a British painter and printmaker renowned for her vibrant, geometric, and abstract works of art that have captivated audiences for decades. With a career spanning over six decades, Jaray has made significant contributions to the art world, leaving an indelible mark on modern art.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Vienna, Austria in 1937, Jaray grew up in rural Worcestershire, England, after her parents emigrated to escape the Nazi occupation in 1938. Her father, Franz Ferdinand Jaray, was a chemical engineer and industrial inventor, while her mother, Pauline Arndt, was an art school graduate. Jaray's great aunt, Lea Bondi Jaray, a prominent gallerist, played a crucial role in introducing German Expressionism to London, influencing Jaray's artistic trajectory.

Education and Travel

Jaray's artistic journey began at the Saint Martins School of Art and later at the Slade School of Fine Art, where she honed her skills under the mentorship of luminaries like William Coldstream and E.H. Gombrich. A five-month sojourn in Paris, where she stayed at the hotel run by Marcel Proust's former housekeeper, Cleste Albaret, proved formative. Jaray formed lasting relationships with fellow artists Valli Myers and Zoran Muji, solidifying her artistic identity.

Public Art and Recognition

Over the past two decades, Jaray has undertaken numerous high-profile public art projects, cementing her status as a pioneering artist. Her contributions have been recognized by esteemed institutions, including the Royal Institute of British Architects, which honored her as an Honorary Fellow in 1995. In 2010, she was elected a Royal Academician, solidifying her position within the art establishment.

Philosophical Contributions

Jaray's artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in her fascination with the relationship between color, form, and space. Her work often explores the tension between geometric shapes and vibrant hues, creating a sense of dynamism and energy. Through her art, Jaray challenges the viewer to reevaluate their perception of the world around them, inviting them to enter a realm of abstraction and contemplation.

Major Works and Career Highlights

• Santorini (1973), a series of prints that showcase Jaray's mastery of color and form.
• Vienna Suite (1980), a collection of paintings that reflect her Austrian heritage.
• River Run (1993), a large-scale public art installation that redefined the urban landscape.

Influence on Modern Society

Jaray's artistic vision has had a profound impact on modern society, inspiring generations of artists, architects, and designers. Her commitment to exploring the intersection of art and architecture has led to a greater understanding of the role of public art in shaping urban environments.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• 1960: Awarded the Abbey Minor Traveling Scholarship to Italy, where she discovered the wonders of Italian architecture.
• 1968: Began teaching at the Slade School of Fine Art, UCL, a position she held for over three decades.
• 1995: Named an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Legacy and Impact

Tess Jaray's remarkable body of work has left an indelible mark on the art world. Her innovative approach to color, form, and space has influenced countless artists, architects, and designers. As a champion of public art, Jaray has helped to transform urban landscapes, creating vibrant, dynamic spaces that inspire and uplift. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists, solidifying her position as a visionary painter and printmaker.