From Viktor’s Attic

Missing World War II-Era Watercolors Found

Viktor has received a gift from his past for his 99th birthday: over 40 of his own works, previously assumed to be lost or sold. Archivist Craig Bara recently discovered the series of watercolor paintings created during Viktor’s World War II service.

“They were hidden behind a stack of empty frames,” explains Craig. "They appear never to have been framed. They carry no exhibition tags. I’ve never seen these images in any published catalogue." Only a few of Viktor’s World War II series have previously been catalogued. Two of these appear in Henry Adams’ book, Viktor Schreckengost and 20th-Century Design.

Untitled (War Devastation)

Three subjects appear among the watercolor series: images of ruined buildings in war-torn France, a pilot’s perspective on flying through the clouds, and--a curious subject for a soldier-- orchids. Each canvas is unique, says Craig. The paintings were completed during or immediately after Viktor’s World War II service, or during the mid- to late-1940s. They are signed, some with his military rank and position. All the works appear to be untitled.

Untitled (View from the Clouds)

In a 1989 interview with Henry Adams, Viktor spoke about these paintings, but dismissed them as "gone"—perhaps lost or sold. He explained that although watercolors were not his usual choice of media, it was one of the only ones available to him as a serviceman. The paintings fulfilled his need to express himself, especially his horror at the devastation of France. Explains Henry Adams in his book, “He produced (these) watercolors to bring home to Americans the terrible devastation of war.” Unfortunately, Viktor commented, “People were not interested. When they reacted at all it was with a shrug that seemed to imply: all that is over now, so let’s forget about it.”

Untitled (Orchid)

With the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II this year, it seems appropriate—though long overdue—that Viktor’s paintings resurface to teach a new generation about the terrible repercussions of war. As the watercolors are catalogued by the Foundation, more detailed information will be forthcoming. Watch future issues of this newsletter for updates.