FELIKS JASIEŃSKI—THE PATRON OF POLISH FEMALE ARTISTS

Abstract

Feliks Manggha-Jasieński (1861–1929), a donator to the National Museum in Kraków, since the beginning of his career has supported the budding Polish avant-garde. Many works of the most renowned creators of the period, both male and female, the ones recognized by the public and those whose work was appreciated years later. Together with the works of Olga Boznańska Jadwiga Mehofferowa and Aneri (Irena Weissowa), the collection was supplemented by works by debuting artists Zofia Stryjeńska and Olga Niewska—the collector’s “pupils.” One of the main problems the young female art disciples met with was the limited access to education. Aware of that fact Jasieński supported private art schools in Kraków, conducting private history of art lessons illustrated with works of art. He was committed to the restoration Polish craftsmanship and supported the Kraków Workshops, especially the Studio Batik. In 1921 he funded a prize for young Polish graphic artists, painters and musicians at the Academy of Learning.