The Fascinating World of Vladimir Tretchikoff: The Green Lady

Mr Print Store
Mar 4
3 min read

Updated: Mar 27

If you grew up in a home where a mysteriously green-skinned woman watched over the living room, chances are you’ve encountered the work of Vladimir Tretchikoff. Dubbed "The People's Painter," Tretchikoff was the king of kitsch. He mastered vibrant, dramatic portraits and created one of the most famous and widely reproduced artworks in history—Chinese Girl, better known as "The Green Lady."

Despite being shunned by art critics who thought his work was too commercial, Tretchikoff laughed all the way to the bank. He sold millions of prints and became a pop culture sensation. Today, his work remains a retro must-have. It adorns the walls of vintage lovers, mid-century modern homes, and hipster cafés worldwide. But who was the man behind the art? And why is "The Green Lady" still such an icon?

Who Was Vladimir Tretchikoff?

Tretchikoff’s life was as colorful as his paintings. Born in 1913 in what is now Russia, his family fled the Russian Revolution and eventually settled in China. As a young artist, he worked in advertising before moving to Singapore—just in time for World War II to flip his world upside down. Captured by the Japanese, he survived by painting propaganda posters. This was artistic survival at its finest.

After the war, Tretchikoff made his way to South Africa. There, he would cement his legacy as a global art phenomenon. Unlike most artists, Tretchikoff didn't rely on elite galleries to promote his work. Instead, he took his art directly to the people. He organized public exhibitions and sold prints at an affordable price. It worked—by the 1950s and 60s, his prints were everywhere. This made him one of the most commercially successful artists of all time.

The Green Lady: A Mid-Century Marvel

His most famous work, "Chinese Girl" (aka The Green Lady), is a masterpiece of striking color and soft mystery. It features an elegant Chinese woman with an almost alien-green complexion and deep red lips. The painting became one of the most reproduced prints of the 20th century.

The subject of the painting, Monika Sing-Lee, was a young South African of Chinese descent. With her serene expression and traditional silk outfit, she became an enduring symbol of exotic beauty and pop art flair. By the 1960s, you could find "The Green Lady" on walls across Britain, Australia, and beyond. This made it one of the most recognizable images in pop culture history.

Why Is The Green Lady So Popular Today?

Mid-Century Chic – The bold colors and vintage charm make it the perfect piece for retro-inspired interiors.
Nostalgic Appeal – Many remember the painting from childhood, giving it a sentimental connection.
Statement Art – Its dramatic lighting and otherworldly green skin make it instantly eye-catching.
Kitsch is Cool – Once dismissed as "bad taste," kitsch is now celebrated in vintage décor and pop culture.

More Tretchikoff Treasures

While "The Green Lady" is his superstar, Tretchikoff created a whole gallery of unforgettable portraits and still lifes. Here are some other gems that deserve a shout-out:

Miss Wong – A glamorous Chinese woman, softer and more subdued than The Green Lady, but just as striking. A must-have for vintage lovers.
Balinese Girl – With delicate features and a dreamy expression, this portrait adds an air of exotic elegance.
Zulu Girl – A powerful and beautiful portrayal of African culture, celebrating Tretchikoff’s South African influence.
Lady from Orient – A mysterious and regal figure, perfect for adding drama to any room.
Lost Orchid – A lush still-life painting, proving Tretchikoff could make flowers just as captivating as his portraits.

From Kitsch to Cult Classic

Tretchikoff was often dismissed by critics, but today, his work is more popular than ever. His bold use of color and dramatic style have won the hearts of collectors and designers alike. In 2014, an original print of "The Green Lady" sold at auction for nearly £900,000. This was an ironic twist considering how critics once scoffed at his work.

His paintings continue to appear in fashion, film, and interior design. This proves that his vision was ahead of its time. Whether you love his art for its kitschy charm, retro vibes, or sheer boldness, there’s no denying that Vladimir Tretchikoff’s legacy is alive and well.

So, if you ever spot "The Green Lady" watching over a room, take a moment to appreciate her strange, hypnotic beauty. She’s not just a painting—she’s a cultural icon and a statement piece. Tretchikoff reminds us that great art doesn’t have to be exclusive. Sometimes, the best masterpieces are the ones hanging in ordinary homes, loved by everyday people.