Madja Ruperti

Madja Ruperti (1903 - 1989) , born Madeleine Elisabeth Marie van Rijckevorsel on May 13, 1903, in Moscow, was a Russian artist known for her diverse and innovative body of work. Despite facing initial rejection and resentment as the wife of a chemist during the Basel Artists' Christmas Exhibition in 1945, Ruperti persevered and continued to create art. Her nickname "Madja," derived from "Madeleine," reflected her enduring passion for artistic expression.

Ruperti's artistic journey encompassed various genres, including still lifes, landscapes, and portraits. A member of Movimento 22 and later the Society of Swiss Painters, Sculptors, and Artists, Ruperti's artistic evolution saw her experimenting with different techniques. Her first foray into non-representational art, 'Encounter in the Forest,' marked a significant shift in her style. 

Ruperti's artistic exploration led her to master techniques such as collages and palette knife painting, showcasing her versatility and adaptability. Her works evolved over time, with a progression from vertical forms to horizontal lines in her later pieces. Despite facing initial challenges, Ruperti's dedication to her craft and her ability to embrace new artistic avenues solidified her legacy as a pioneering artist.