Leon Bakst (b.1866 d.1924) was a Jewish Russian artist known for his theatre and costume design. In 1898 Bakst became part of a group of artists in Russia who formed the Mir Iskusstva (World of Art) movement. Influenced by Savva Mamaontov, in 1902 Bakst turned to stage design. He gained huge acclaim for his work on the sets and costume design for Serge Diaghilev’s dance company the Ballets Russes. Bakst’s work is characterised by bold designs with sumptuous colours. His work continues to inspire fashion and interior design today.
