Zofia Stryjeńska's 130th Birthday

Today’s Doodle, illustrated by Poland-based guest artist Dixie Leota, celebrates the 130th birthday of Polish painter, graphic designer, illustrator, and stage designer Zofia Stryjeńska, who is widely regarded as one of the most significant Polish art deco artists of the early 1900s. Across its countless mediums, Stryjeńska’s bold and adventurous work mirrors her personality as an uncompromising heroine of creativity and artistic expression.

Born Zofia Lubańska on this day in 1891 in Kraków, Poland, Zofia Stryjeńska began painting caricatures of her father’s customers in his glove shop, developing a talent that became her life’s passion. But gender barriers stood in the way of her artistic pursuits; barriers she was determined to break. As the Munich Academy of Fine Arts—her top choice of schools—was a traditionally all-male institution, Stryjeńska cut her hair and attended the university disguised as a man. But after a year in Munich, the pressure of keeping her identity hidden pushed her to return home to Kraków. 

Inspired by the history of her national identity, Stryjeńska began her career at 21 with a series of paintings based on Polish folklore. This modern take on a traditional art form became her hallmark; a style that gained popularity as Poland had recently regained its independence in 1911 and its citizens cherished their historical iconography. Her 1917 series of surrealist lithographs entitled “Bożki Słowiańskie” (“Slavic Idols”) saw massive success and was printed on everything from postcards to chocolates. 

An expert of folk costumes and Slavic mythology, Stryjeńska expressed the love of her heritage in work that ranged from wooden chess pieces to ballet costumes, like those designed for the 1930s Polish ballet “Harnasie.”

Happy birthday, Zofia Stryjeńska!

Guest Artist Q&A with Dixie Leota

Today’s Doodle was illustrated by Poland-based guest artist Dixie Leota. Below, she shares her thoughts behind the making of this Doodle:

Q. Why was this topic meaningful to you personally?

A. When I studied Art History and was writing an essay about art of the interwar period, I had a chance to get to know more about Zofia Stryjeńska and her life (which was fascinating by the way). She became my favorite painter and illustrator. I was captivated by her vibrant, joyful works, by her appreciation of Polish folklore and Slavic beliefs. Looking at her paintings inspires me to grow as an artist and to educate myself about my own culture.

Q. What were your first thoughts when you were approached about working on this Doodle?

A. I was extremely excited! I always enjoy seeing a Google Doodle on the homepage. Some of them are so creative and beautiful. It’s an honor to be a part of this project.

Q. Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle? 

A. I was mainly inspired by the decorative panels “The Four Seasons" with allegories of the months and her depictions of the Polish village during the harvest time.

Q. What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A. I hope people will Google her! She is worth knowing–not only because she was a great painter and illustrator, but also because of her life and how funny she was (I recommend everyone to read her diaries)! In a world where a lot of people struggle to name a few female artists, she is the one of many to know.