ERTE

1892-1990 - Erte has often been called the father of Art Deco. Erte defined it as the fusion of the curvilinear designs of Art Nouveau of the 19th Century with the Cubist, Constructivist, and geometrical designs of modernity. He was also influenced by Persian miniatures and would often use a brush with a single hair to complete his gouache paintings. His imagination was limitless, and Erte designed costumes, stage sets, jewelry, object d'arte, sculpture and ceramics. Unlike many artists who work freely before a canvas or sketchpad, Erte developed his own unique process: he would visualize the entire work of art in his mind until it was completed to every detail, and then create the work from his "mind's eye." Erte is considered as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.