In 1990, The Daily Collegian covered the work of local artist, Steven Kondra whose work appears in the Allen Gallery throughout the month of February courtesy of his daughter, Susan Simpson.

“Kondra began his artistic career as a boy in Hungary, where he learned the art of textile making at his father's rehabilitation institute. Since his early childhood, however, he... always had a love for painting. First introduced to oil painting in the eighth grade, Kondra tried to learn about the craft by following an artist friend... Because Kondra's father did not like the artistic life, he sent his son to economic school. Kondra eventually joined the army and was away from painting for a long time. Kondra left the army after World War II when the Russians entered Hungary, because he was anti-Communist. He set up a textile factory where he designed looms, and [painted] on and off as a hobby.... 1956, he was able to move to England and start a textile business in his home where he made lace shawls” (Florio). Kondra refocused on painting after his retirement and the works here are a sample of his artistic sytle, grounded in romantic realism.

Selections of work may be for sale. Inquiries may be directed to the artist’s daughter, Susan.

Interested in purchasing a piece from this show? Contact Susan Simpson: 814.404.8201