The artist Nikollë Idromeno, was born in Shkodër on August 15th, 1860. Kolë Idromeno was a multi-talented artist from Shkodra, known for his skills in painting, architecture, photography, scenography, music, and songwriting. He was recognized as the “People’s Painter.”

In 1883, he painted “Motra tonë” (Our Sister), which is the first important realistic work in Albanian painting of the Renaissance and Independence period. Later on 1919, Idromeno pioneered cinematographic shows in Albania. He also was the founding father of the realistic school of Albanian painting of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Kolë Idromeno belonged to a Cham family who migrated from Parga, Greece and settled in Shkodër. He received his initial art education at Pietro Marubbi’s studio, where he introduced to the latest form of art, photography. In 1875, at the age of 16, he went to Venice and spent a short period of time at the Academy of Fine Arts. Then, he moved at the studio a Venetian artist. Later, in 1878, he returned to Shkodër and showcased his diverse interests and talents. During this time, he became known for a number of public architectural projects and private buildings in Shkodër such as Kafja e Madhe, the National Bank, and several houses on the two main streets of the city.  His architectural style incorporated western elements in contrast to the traditional oriental architecture prevalent in the area for centuries.

The photographic collection of Idromeno includes 1300 glass negatives at the Center for Albanian Studies in Tirana and as well as approximately 100 at the “Marubi” Museum in Shkodër.

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