Portrait of Maria Ożyńska

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Before you stands Portrait of Maria Ożyńska, a striking likeness captured in 1928 by the Polish artist Jan Witkiewicz. Held in the esteemed collection of the Toruń Regional Museum, this pastel portrait draws us in with its intimate portrayal and vibrant use of color. nn Witkiewicz masterfully renders Maria Ożyńska from the chest up, her gaze direct and engaging. She is depicted in a stylish white garment, perhaps a jacket or blouse, adorned with a black floral embellishment. Her modern bob haircut, a popular style of the era, hints at her confident personality. nn Notice how Witkiewicz uses a combination of delicate lines and bold strokes to create a sense of depth and texture. The background, a captivating blend of blue and gold hues applied in an almost abstract manner, adds a dynamic energy to the composition, further emphasizing Maria's presence. nn This portrait, beyond its aesthetic appeal, offers us a glimpse into the cultural landscape of Poland in the 1920s. The sitter's attire and hairstyle reflect the era's embrace of modernity, while the artist's distinctive style speaks to the flourishing avant-garde art scene of the time. Witkiewicz, known for his psychological portraits, captures not just Maria's physical likeness, but also hints at her inner world, inviting us to contemplate the woman behind the captivating gaze.