Václav Špála (1885–1946) was a Czech painter, graphic designer and illustrator. He studied at Prague Academy. He exhibited his work with “Stubborn” group. At the beginning of his career his work was influenced by Fauvism*, later by Cubism.*

Since 1923 he painted mainly landscapes and still-lives.

Václav Špála ranks among the greatest phenomena of Czech modern art. Czech society alternately rejected him and lavished uncritical praise on him. His paintings used to accompany many of us throughout our school years, decorating not only classrooms but also numerous offices and living rooms.

Špála was one of the first artists to be recognized with the title National Artist, and was awarded it in 1946.

Source:
"Vaclav Spala," Wikipedia, June 2016

* For more in-depth information about these terms and others, see AskART.com. Glossary http://www.askart.com/AskART/lists/Art_Definition.aspx

Vaclav Spála, a Czech artist, was a prominent figure in the Czech avant-garde movement. He was born in the early 20th century and studied at the Prague Academy of Arts. Spála was influenced by the Fauvists initially but later turned to Cubism in his work. He was a member of various artists' associations and groups, including the Mánes Artists' Association and the Prague Group of Fine Artists. Spála's favorite subjects included landscapes and floral still lifes, which he depicted using a reduced palette of primary colors. In 1946, he was declared a national artist in Czechoslovakia.