Born in 1888 in Miercurea Sibiului, Corneliu Virgiliu Medrea was a major Romanian sculptor and art teacher, one of the best in the last century, well known for his impressive production of works. A prolific and interesting artist, with a strong classical touch, Medrea was influential, he marked several generations of younger artists and, most of all, took great care in his creations.
He began his art studies in Budapest, at the Decorative Arts School, where he studied under Gyorgy Zala and learned the first "professional" rules, techniques and lessons of art history, which will mix in his style with the strong folk art legacy. It was this combination that - like in several other cases - helped the artist to create a strong and recognisable style. Which will bring Medrea not only several interesting commisions, but also the chance of teaching art to several future major Romanian artists.
After completing his studies in Hungary, Medrea seized the opportunity to travel in 1912 - 1913 throughout Europe, discovering museums, galleris, works of art, famous masters, art history, techniques and mediums, a varied and complicated array of sources of inspiration. This European experience will leave it's mark especially upon his more mature works.
Starting with 1914 Medrea began exhibing at the Official Sallons in Bucharest, and much to his surprise the art critics were particularly impressed with these early creations. These first successes encouraged him to continue his work and had several successful exhibitions at the group shows organised by cultural foundations such as Tinerimea Artistica or Arta Romana. Four times he also exhibited at the prestigious Venice Biennale, with the same success, and he also had several solo and group exhibitions abroad.
But Medrea was not only a highly respected artist, but also a very appreciated art teacher. He began teaching sculpture in 1939 at the Fine Arts Academy in Bucharest, and year after year, he prepared new generations of artists, only to continue teaching until 1964. Since 1955 he had been elected a member of the Academy. He produced several portraits, historical scenes, alegorical compositions, practically no classical theme was ignored.
He passed away in 1964.
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