Vladimir Jakelic was born in 1943 in Prugovo near Split, in Croatia. After attending the School of Applied Arts in Split, he studied at the Art Academy in Zagreb, graduating in 1966 in the class of Prof. Antun Mezdjic. Between 1967 and 1972, while in the master workshop of the great Croatian painter Krsto Hegedusic, he evolved into a highly individual painter. Jakelic first presented his work to the public as a member of the avantgarde art group Biafra, the members of which, each in his own way, were breaking the set mold of trends and ideas in Croatian art, creating a specific idiom suited to the sensibility of modern man.
The echoes of ”Biafra”, whose member he was between 1972 and 1974, still reverberate today in his work, but with a new, fresh power. Since then, Vlado Jakelic has had several one-man shows and participated in over two hundred group exhibitions in Croatia and abroad (Cairo, Mainz, Bucharest etc.). He has received many awards for his work, both national and international. With the writer Zvonimir Milcec, he is co-author of the book “On Foot In Zagreb” which contains a selection of his works that are thematically linked to Zagreb, where he lives and works as a professional artist. The entire preparation for print (separation of colours) for the portfolio Vistas of Zagreb was done by hand by the artist himself.
Flower Square
This is a print of one of Zagrebs most attractive squares, named and known for the traditional flower sellers and many cultural happenings held there. With great patience and attention for detail the artist has achieved an almost photographic veracity.
Jelacic Square
In his characteristic hyperrealistic style, Jakelic has recreated the main square in Zagreb, dominated by the big equestrian statue to the Croatian ban Josip Jelacic who led the Croats in 1848. By adding a number of wellpainted pedestrian figures he has shown us the everyday life of the square.
Maksimir
This is the largest park in Zagreb with its lakes, woods and Zoo, a favorite of young and old. This is a very realistic work of art showing us one of the lakes in all its beauty.
Tkalciceva Street
One of the oldest streets in Zagreb, the many cafes are popular meeting places of the young. The colorful facades of old houses have been well preserved. This view shows the bronze statue of Marija Zagorka, a writer of romances based on the history of the city, and the oldest sundial in Zagreb.
Zagreb Morning
Misty mornig view of Zagreb city center. With great patience and attention for detail the artist has achieved an almost photographic veracity.
Zrinjevac
This wellknown park, in the center of Zagreb, with its avenue of old plane trees and its bandstand, is a theme often painted by Vlado Jakelic. Using a rich palette of warm colors he depicts a sunny autumn day.