Igor Stravinsky

Stravinsky, a Russian composer born near St. Petersburg in 1882, worked in Europe and the USA. His individuality did not emerge until his contact with Diaghilev which resulted in the composition of the ballet, 'The Firebird'. This was succeeded by a series of startling works such as 'Petrushka' and 'The Rite of Spring'.

The Rite, with it's rhythms employed to orgiastic effect, famously created an uproar in the Paris opera house in 1913. My painting with its plush greens is an attempt to capture the staginess and cold individuality of the composer's works.