Rezo Gabriadze (1936–2021) was a Georgian artist, playwright, filmmaker, sculptor, and poet—a visionary whose work blended humor, melancholy, and profound storytelling.
Born in Kutaisi on June 29, 1936, he first pursued sculpture and painting before studying journalism at Tbilisi State University. His early career as a screenwriter led to the creation of Georgian cinema classics such as Don’t Grieve! and Mimino, collaborating with renowned directors like Georgiy Daneliya.
In 1981, seeking artistic independence, Gabriadze founded the Gabriadze Marionette Theatre in Tbilisi, where he wrote, directed, and handcrafted every detail of his productions. His poetic puppet plays—Autumn of My Springtime, Ramona, The Battle of Stalingrad—toured the world, earning praise from The New York Times and The New Yorker for their profound storytelling and exquisite craftsmanship.
Beyond theater, Gabriadze's paintings and sculptures were exhibited globally, with works in major museums and private collections. His influence extended into literature, with numerous books and illustrations that captured his whimsical yet deeply reflective artistic style.
A recipient of prestigious international awards, including France’s Order of Arts and Letters, Gabriadze’s legacy lives on in his films, plays, paintings, and the magic of his theater—a testament to the boundless imagination of one of Georgia’s most beloved artists.