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The Bell-Roberts gallery at Lourensford Estate in Somerset West, in association with Natasha Mercorio and Andrew Franks, are presenting an exhibition of 1950's vintage prints by Vladimir Tretchikoff from December 8 to 22. Self taught artist Vladimir Tretchikoff was born in Russia in 1913. In 1946 he moved to South Africa. Tretchikoff made a mark on the art world with his works in oil, watercolour, ink, charcoal and pencil. But what really characterised his works were the reproductions of his work which sold worldwide - enjoying enormous popularity and also earning him the title of being the wealthiest living artist after Picasso. His most famous painting Chinese Girl, sold millions around the world. It is rumoured that more prints were made of it than of Leonardo's Mona Lisa or Van Gogh's Sunflowers. Tretchikoff exhibited extensively in South Africa, Russia, UK, USA, China and Canada. However, he never enjoyed recognition as a serious artist in this country; his work was considered to be too commercial by the art critics and art museums or galleries alike. This despite the fact that in 1961 a record 205 000 people queued around the block to view an exhibition of his work at Harrods in London. His granddaughter, Natasha Mercorio, is the custodian of his artistic property.

Together with Andrew Franks, she has dedicated herself to the resurrection of his passion and talent. On exhibition at the gallery will be a series of 1950's vintage prints (which will be for sale) together with a selection of the original works from their private collection. These prints are from the artists' private collection and being released by the family for the first time. Each print comes with a certificate of authentication signed by Tretchikoff's daughter. On sale too will be a collector's edition of the book "Tretchikoff" - there are only 39 copies of this edition left worldwide.

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