Vrbica Wolfgang

Wolfgang Vrbica moved to Argentina in 1952, where he attended primary school and two years of secondary school. He attended courses in English and mathematics. At the age of 15 he began bookkeeping training with a textile enterprise, and at the age of 18 was already responsible for the administrative activities within this enterprise. In 1969, he had an accident at a stream, leading to complete paralysis. Only three years later, he had taught himself to paint with his mouth.

Wolfgang Vrbica paints with oil, watercolour and tempera paint, sometimes also mixed media. He has a very individual style that is strongly influenced by naive painting. His works are characterised by a strong use of colour and sometimes appear to be idyllic or fairytale landscapes. His work has been given recognition in the form of certificates and medals from the Government, Congress, museums and libraries as well as rehabilitation centres.

In 1979, Wolfgang Vrbica was given a scholarship by the Association, enabling him to exhibit his works publicly. He has held numerous exhibitions in Argentina and has also participated in joint exhibitions in a number of countries. In addition, he holds lectures on the topic of art and disability, mainly speaking about his personal experiences. He has often been interviewed on radio and television and in newspapers and magazines in Argentina and abroad and has been filmed at work painting or writing.