Art Barn - Paintings from Two Centuries III

Paul Smalian was an artist whose life and work were shaped by the impressions of numerous travels and a love for the landscape of Steinhuder Meer. Born on June 2, 1901, in Neuruppin, he developed a passion for visual arts at an early age. After graduating from the State Art School in Berlin, he entered an exciting period of discovery and artistic growth. Particularly formative was Smalian's stay in Egypt between 1927 and 1931, where he immersed himself deeply in the landscape and culture. These experiences were reflected in his intense, earthy color worlds that captured the magic and beauty of North Africa. In addition to Egypt, his travels took him to Italy, Brazil, Tunisia, Morocco, and numerous other countries that provided him with daily new inspirations. Each destination transferred its colorful splendor and cultural depth into Smalian's paintings, so that his works embodied an impressive diversity of the world. In 1945, Smalian moved to Gehrden, before making the idyllic Steinhuder Meer his new home three years later. The picturesque setting inspired him to create a series of works that contained both the calm, almost mystical atmosphere of the sea and the stories of his worldwide experiences. In this balance between wanderlust and love for his homeland lay the strength and uniqueness of his art. His works received attention in numerous exhibitions, including those of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Culture and the State Gallery in Dessau. The highlight of his artistic legacy was the exhibition celebrating his 120th birthday in 2021 in Steinhude, which duly honored his extraordinary oeuvre. Smalian's works were highly regarded in the region and beyond, as manifested by a street named after him on the Brazilian island of Itaparica. Paul Smalian passed away on November 1, 1974, in Steinhude, but left behind an unmistakable legacy that forever unites the beauty of the world and the special magic of Steinhuder Meer in art. His works continue to invite people to rediscover these enchanting places and experiences from his perspective. Opening hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 2 PM to 5 PM, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 11 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free – an experience for the whole family!