Gabriela Zapolska w kręgu nabistów

Abstract

Elżbieta Koślacz-Virol, a Polish actress and researcher into the work of Gabriela Zapolska, a permanent resident in France, analyses one of the aspects of Gabriela Zapolska’s (1857–1921) stay in France in the years 1889–1895. Zapolska left for France aiming to conquer French theatre stages. In pursuing her goal, she joined a group of avant-garde painters known as Les Nabis. One of them, Paul Sérusier (1864–1927), even proposed to Zapolska. Sérusier not only introduced Zapolska to the world of French artists, but also taught her understanding works of modern art. With his advice, she became an art critic showing considerable competences. Zapolska, in turn, influenced the climate of Sérusier’s painting that turned to be harmonious and decorative. Zapolska left for Poland by the end of May 1895, intending to return to Paris soon, but while in Warsaw, she managed to obtain contracts for performing in plays that she translated. She never returned to France, leaving Sérusier alone. Sérusier tried to commit suicide after Zapolska’s departure. Saved, he convalesced in the Beuron monastery with his Dutch friend and a Nabis Jan Verkade.