Life of Julius Zarand

Julius Zarand was educated as a painter at the University of
Budapest. Awarded a scholarship to further his studies in Italy, he was commissioned
to paint a portrait of Pope Pius XII.

Persian rugs became a passion of Mr. Zarand, as a result of a visit to Persia with his father
(a collector) as a young boy. Mr. Zarand and a colleague started
a business in post-war German knotting rugs in the Persian manner. He made rugs
incorporating the Great Seal of the United States for the American Military Government in
Berlin.
Upon his arrival in Toronto in 1952, Mr. Zarand painted an early
portrait of Roy Thomson, 1st Baron Thomson of Fleet.
   Mr. Zarand came to Saint Mary’s University in Halifax to teach
in the University’s prominent art program. He became known internationally for his
portraits. His talents are seen in a plethora of works in oils and watercolour
including landscapes, allegorical works, seascapes, etc.
   Mr. Zarand established Atlantic Art Gallery at the Lord Nelson
Arcade. As well, his work was shown at Zwicker’s Gallery, Saint Mary’s University, St.
Francis Xavier University, Lyghtesome Gallery, etc.
    A review of Mr. Zarand’s work, after a show at a major Illinois
University, states that Mr. Zarand was, at the time, “the best technical artist working in
America”.