Anton Frommelt (1895–1975)
Anton Frommelt grew up the 11th child in modest peasant circumstances in Schaan, Liechtenstein. After becoming a priest in 1920, he tought drawing at a lyceum in Schwyz (CH), before he was elected parish priest in Triesen. Here, he photographed his surroundings, the people in their every day life, at village celebrations or at work, but also people in need, in sickness and on their deathbed. Even these early photographs show Frommelt's artistic ideas and intentions.
1928 Frommelt entered politics. Between 1933 and 1945 he dedicated his services to the country as President of the Liechtenstein parliament and Deputy Prime Minister. As a politician he played a substantial role in Liechtenstein's fate during World War II.
After the war ended, 50 year old Frommelt resigned from all political mandates to dedicate himself to painting. As an intermediary and consultant for art in public places and for the design of postage stamps, he acted as mentor to many regional artists, whose artworks he bought for his private collection. Today, this collection proves an important testimony of that artistic period.
Frommelt's own paintings breathe an earnestness, severity, and clarity in composition and colour, love for his fellow human beings, animals and the beauty of his home country, which left their mark on his whole life and work.
1928 Frommelt entered politics. Between 1933 and 1945 he dedicated his services to the country as President of the Liechtenstein parliament and Deputy Prime Minister. As a politician he played a substantial role in Liechtenstein's fate during World War II.
After the war ended, 50 year old Frommelt resigned from all political mandates to dedicate himself to painting. As an intermediary and consultant for art in public places and for the design of postage stamps, he acted as mentor to many regional artists, whose artworks he bought for his private collection. Today, this collection proves an important testimony of that artistic period.
Frommelt's own paintings breathe an earnestness, severity, and clarity in composition and colour, love for his fellow human beings, animals and the beauty of his home country, which left their mark on his whole life and work.
