František Drtikol

František Drtikol was a Czech photographer and artist known for his avant-garde and innovative photographic portraits, nudes, and still life images. Drtikol studied painting and photography in Prague and later opened his own photography studio, where he began experimenting with techniques such as multiple exposures and solarization. He gained a reputation for his unique and striking photographic portraits, which often incorporated bold lighting and dramatic poses. In the 1920s, Drtikol shifted his focus to creating photographic nudes, which he imbued with a sense of mystery and sensuality. He also continued to experiment with new techniques and materials, such as printing his images on silk and experimenting with toning and hand coloring.