Stanisław Raczynski (1903-1982) studied painting at the Krakow Academy of Fine Arts in Poland. Before World War II his artistic interest focused on graphics, in particular wood-cutting, lithography and similar techniques. His early works were influenced mainly by the modernist style in painting and wood-carving. His admiration for Salvador Dali was notable, though he did not follow in his surrealist footsteps.
Between the late 1920s and 30s he was a successful artist with great expectations. He married Bronislawa Gawin, who was from an old Krakow family, and went on to become his great partner and supporter. However, the sharp beginnings of World War II brought his artistic career to a dramatic halt.
