Aunapuu Hermann (1915 – 1998). Otepää. (1957)

Watercolour on cardboard created by Hermann Aunapuu in 1957, this artwork is signed by the artist as “Aunapuu 57” on the lower right. Hermann Aunapuu (1915-1998), a prominent artist, was trained in the prestigious Pallas School of Art, under the guidance of mentors like Ado Vabbe. Aunapuu’s artistic prowess can be seen in his landscapes, still lifes, city views, nudes, and portraits, all reflecting his remarkable sense of color. Often compared to his contemporaries Elmar Kits and Endel Kõks, Aunapuu faced hardships during his career, including forced labor in Vorkuta. Despite these challenges, he continued to create art, working as a window designer for many years, until his first solo exhibition in Tartu in 2003. This piece, titled “Otepää,” offers a unique insight into Aunapuu’s creative brilliance and rich artistic heritage.