Emil Artur Longen

1885 - 1936

Quick Facts

  • Died: 1936
  • Art period: Modern
  • Museums on APS: Moravian Gallery in Brno
  • Works on APS: 2
  • Top 3 works:
    • Card Players
    • Capo di Istria
  • Lifespan: 51 years

The Multifaceted Life of Emil Artur Longen

Born Emil Václav František Pitterman, the man known as Emil Artur Longen was a Czech playwright, director, actor, screenwriter, and painter. His artistic journey began in the Academy of Fine Arts, Prague, where he studied under Franz Thiele. In 1907, he was involved in the founding of the artists' association, Osma. While his creative pursuits extended into the realms of theatre and cabaret, he also made significant contributions to the early stages of Czech cinema, co-authoring and starring in comedies, and later directing films such as Rudi sportsman. His theatrical career included owning cabarets like Bum and Revoluční scéna, and working as an actor and dramaturge at the Vlasta Burian Theatre.

Artistic Style and Personal History

In his visual work, Longen was initially drawn to Post-Impressionism and Expressionism, while also being influenced by Cubism. Beyond his paintings, he produced various illustrations and caricatures for periodicals. His life was marked by a Bohemian lifestyle and a temperament that led to significant personal debts, which eventually meant his paintings served as a means to help pay those obligations. His personal life was complex, involving a marriage to the actress Xena Marková—whose life inspired his biographical novel Herečka—and a subsequent marriage to Maria Uhlířová. He passed away in Benešov Hospital.

Questions & Answers

Can I browse Emil Artur Longen's works by color palette?

Emil Artur Longen's works can be browsed by color palette on the artist's By Palettes page.

What are the birth city and country of Emil Artur Longen?

Emil Artur Longen was born in Pardubice, in Czech Republic.

Where are Emil Artur Longen's artworks grouped by art movement?

Emil Artur Longen's works can be browsed by movement on the artist's All Movements page.

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What was Emil Artur Longen's birth name?
Question 2:
In which city did Longen study at the Academy of Fine Arts?
Question 3:
Which artistic movement was Longen initially drawn to?
Question 4:
What was the name of the cabaret Longen helped make prominent in Prague?
Question 5:
What was the cause of Longen's death in 1936?