Oton Postružnik
Open Seashell, 1977
oil on canvas
65.3 x 81 cm
MG-6977

Oton Postružnik (Maribor, 1900 – Zagreb, 1978) was a leading figure in Croatian modern art. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb and continued his education in Prague and Paris. He began his artistic career as a member of the “Earth” Association of Artists, known for its socially engaged art, and later became a key proponent of lyrical abstraction in post-war Croatia. After 1960, Postružnik produced his first non-figurative works, characterised by a colour-focused approach. His art from this period reveals a strong connection to nature, evident in the organic forms and his sensitivity to colour. This later phase, which includes the painting Open Seashell, presents a more subtle and introspective abstraction inspired by the natural world.
The work is shaped to evoke the organic world, with forms resembling bubbles or seashell fragments. It falls within the style of organic abstraction, featuring fluid, amorphous shapes and smooth colour transitions. Pastel greens, blues, and reds dominate the composition. The abstract, lyrical atmosphere is further enhanced by an intuitive interpretation of natural forms.
Postružnik left an indelible mark in Croatian art through his innovative use of form and colour. As a long-standing professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb, he guided and influenced numerous generations of young artists.

Luciana Fuks, trainee curator at the National Museum of Modern Art © National Museum of Modern Art, Zagreb
Translated by Robertina Tomić
Photo: Goran Vranić © National Museum of Modern Art, Zagreb