Kazys Varnelis (artist)

Kazys Varnelis (1917-2010) was a Lithuanian-American artist, art collector, and philanthropist. Born in Alsėdžiai, Lithuania, he emigrated to the United States in 1949 following World War II and a period spent in displaced persons camps in Germany.

Varnelis was known for his abstract expressionist paintings, often characterized by their geometric forms, textured surfaces, and use of color. His artistic style evolved over his career, incorporating elements of constructivism and minimalism.

Beyond his own artistic practice, Varnelis was a significant collector of Lithuanian art and cultural artifacts. He amassed a vast collection of Lithuanian folk art, maps, historical documents, and rare books. In 1998, he donated his extensive collection to Lithuania, establishing the Kazys Varnelis House-Museum in Vilnius. The museum serves as a repository of Lithuanian cultural heritage and a center for research and exhibition.

Varnelis received numerous awards and honors for his artistic achievements and contributions to Lithuanian culture, including the Lithuanian National Culture and Art Prize. He is remembered for his artistic talent, his dedication to preserving Lithuanian heritage, and his philanthropic endeavors.