The best and also the oldest artist belonging to this group, although not officially a member of the Society of Modern Art, is Jaroslav Veshin. Like Markvitchka, Veshin was Czech by nationality. He received his artistic education in Prague and Munich, where he had already gained a strong reputation before coming to Bulgaria.
Veshin first arrived in Bulgaria as a teacher in a gymnasium and later became a professor at the Sofia School of Painting. However, due to disagreements and misunderstandings with his colleagues, he eventually left the school. After this, he was appointed as the official artist of the Royal Court and the War Office, a position that allowed him to focus fully on his artistic work Customized Turkey Tours.
Artistic Reputation and Influence
There is little doubt that Veshin was the leading artist in Bulgaria of his time. His works were not only appreciated locally but were also displayed in some of the most respected picture galleries in Europe. In addition, many of his students later became successful artists, and several are considered among the most promising figures of the younger generation.
Veshin had a strong influence on his pupils, both through his teaching and through his personal example. His artistic style was mature, confident, and technically superior, setting a high standard for Bulgarian painting.
Subjects and Style
Veshin’s favorite subjects included Bulgarian landscapes, especially winter scenes, as well as old Turkish quarters, gypsies, and hunting scenes. These themes allowed him to show both technical mastery and emotional depth.
In terms of form and technique, Veshin had no equal in Bulgaria. This superiority is clear even in his official works, such as military parades and maneuvers. In these paintings, he avoided empty display and focused instead on artistic quality.
Legacy and Mihoff’s Contribution
In his genre scenes, particularly those depicting peasants, gypsies, and Turks, Veshin introduced a subtle and personal sense of humor. His influence was especially strong on his most talented student, Mihoff, who later became the finest landscape painter of the Bulgarian Impressionist School.
Mihoff approached every subject with equal care and seriousness. He portrayed nature in its most essential forms and used bright, fresh colors. His works show harmony, balance, and thoughtful composition, making them true works of art and a continuation of Veshin’s artistic legacy.