Jiří Bartoš: Painting as a Lifeline and a Tribute to Memory
Jiří Bartoš, a young artist based in Prague, has transformed his personal struggles and environmental grief into a powerful artistic narrative. Standing in his studio in Prague’s Holešovice district, surrounded by his latest series of paintings, Bartoš reflects on his journey: “I had zero self-confidence because I was bullied in elementary school. My classmates in high school were incredibly talented at the same time. I preferred to resort to something that calmed me internally, and that was photography.” Today, Bartoš is a painter, having returned to the medium three years ago. “Painting saved me. It made me like myself,” he says.
A Canvas of Clouds and memories
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Bartoš’s current work revolves around themes of memory and environmental change. His latest series, featuring expansive canvases filled with clouds, reflects a shift in his artistic perspective. “I’ve been painting this picture on and off for three months,” he explains, gesturing to a large canvas. “With this series of clouds, I began to perceive the format of the canvas a little differently.The reference to nature and environmental grief remains in my work. climate change is still present in it, but my personal experiences have started to be incorporated into it.”
The artist’s exploration of memory was sparked by the loss of two family members in a single year. “I noticed that I no longer really know if the given thing happened, when it happened, if I experienced it, or if someone was talking to me about it. My memories of them started to fade away, and so did they themselves, and I didn’t want that,” Bartoš shares. This emotional journey led to the creation of his poignant series, My memories of you are getting a bit blurry and I’m not okay with that.
Nature as a Metaphor for Time
Bartoš’s work often incorporates natural elements like wind, water, and fire, which serve as metaphors for the passage of time and the fragility of memory. “These motifs remind us that memory is not fixed but constantly changing,” he explains. “Although I am resigned to the fact that forgetting is inevitable, I still have hope that memories can survive through poetic interpretation and sharing through art.”
One of his moast cherished memories is tied to his childhood summers at a cottage in Vysočina. “We went fishing with my grandfather or played various fighting games in the forest. When we returned to the cottage, a huge tray was prepared on the table outside with coated breads and tatranka. I felt safe and carefree there,” he recalls. This sense of safety and connection to nature permeates his work, often juxtaposed with the grief of environmental loss.
A Tribute to Vanishing Landscapes
Bartoš’s environmental concerns are deeply personal. Two years ago, he created the series Last Forest Majáles, featuring portraits of animals. “This set depicted the last parties where the animals see each other for the last time before they run off into new territories, not knowing if they will ever meet again or what will happen to them,” he explains. The series was a tribute to forests devastated by the bark beetle calamity,a result of climate change.
“I arrived at the cottage, and the forests I knew were suddenly not there.My home, my landscape, which I was able to follow blindly, was suddenly unrecognizable,” Bartoš recounts. This profound loss is a recurring theme in his art, as he seeks to preserve memories of a world that is rapidly disappearing.
Key Themes in Jiří Bartoš’s Work
| Theme | Description |
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| memory | Explores the fragility and fluidity of personal and collective memories. |
| Environmental Grief | Addresses the impact of climate change on natural landscapes and ecosystems. |
| Nature as Metaphor | Uses natural elements to symbolize time, change, and emotional states.|
| Childhood Nostalgia | Draws inspiration from carefree summers and familial connections in Vysočina. |
bartoš’s art is not just a personal catharsis but also a call to action. Through his evocative paintings,he invites viewers to reflect on their own memories and the urgent need to protect the natural world. As he continues to work in his Holešovice studio, Bartoš remains committed to using his art as a bridge between the past and the present, the personal and the universal.
For more on Jiří Bartoš’s work, explore his artworks or read about his journey in this detailed profile.A Journey Through Memory and Loss: When Familiar Paths Fade
For many, the woods near a childhood home are more than just trees and trails—they are repositories of memories, markers of time, and symbols of connection. But what happens when those familiar paths vanish, leaving behind only silence? This is the poignant question raised by Jiří Bartoš in his deeply personal reflection on loss and the fragility of memory.
In a recent article published on aktuálně.cz, Bartoš recounts a moment that struck him “on an enormous and global scale.” He describes walking to the lower pond near his cottage, a place he had known since childhood, only to find himself lost. “It occurred to me that it was quite possible that I would never see the woods there again,” he writes. “A piece of my memories had disappeared, and all that remained was an unbearable silence.”
This experiance, though deeply personal, resonates with a universal truth: the landscapes of our past are not static. They change,erode,and sometimes vanish entirely,taking with them the memories they once held. bartoš’s story is a reminder of how deeply intertwined our identities are with the places we call home.
The Emotional Weight of Lost Landscapes
bartoš’s narrative is not just about physical disorientation but also about the emotional toll of losing a connection to a place that once felt like an extension of oneself. The woods near his cottage were more than just a backdrop to his life; they were a living archive of his experiences.
the image accompanying the article, captured by Aktuálně.cz, shows the serene yet haunting beauty of the woods. The photo, available in multiple resolutions (192w, 288w, and 576w), underscores the duality of nature—its ability to evoke both comfort and melancholy.
A Table of Key Reflections
| Aspect | Description |
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Emotional Impact | The loss of familiar landscapes can evoke profound feelings of disconnection. |
| Memory and Identity | Places serve as anchors for personal and collective memories. |
| Universal Theme | Bartoš’s experience reflects a broader human experience of change and loss. |
| Visual Portrayal | The accompanying photo highlights the beauty and fragility of natural spaces. |
The Broader Implications
Bartoš’s story is a microcosm of a larger phenomenon. As urbanization and environmental changes reshape the world, many are grappling with the loss of places that once defined their sense of self. This is not just a personal struggle but a collective one, as communities worldwide face the erasure of cultural and natural landmarks.
The article invites readers to reflect on their own connections to place and memory. What happens when the landscapes of our past are no longer there to ground us? How do we navigate the silence that follows?
A Call to Preserve and Reflect
Bartoš’s experience is a call to action—not just to preserve the physical spaces that hold our memories but also to document and share the stories they inspire. by doing so, we ensure that even if the landscapes change, the memories they hold remain alive.
As you read this, take a moment to think about the places that have shaped your life.Visit them if you can, or simply close your eyes and let the memories flow. Because, as Bartoš reminds us, the silence left behind by lost landscapes is not just a void—it’s a space for reflection, connection, and renewal.
For more insights into the intersection of memory, place, and identity, explore Aktuálně.cz’s full article and accompanying visuals. Let Bartoš’s journey inspire you to cherish the landscapes that define your own story.The provided text appears to be a series of broken or incomplete URLs and image links, likely related to a news article or multimedia content. Though, the data is fragmented and lacks coherent context or details to create a meaningful news article. Without a clear narrative, quotes, or specific data points, it is indeed impossible to craft a well-researched, engaging, and plagiarism-free article based solely on the provided text.
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From Garbage to Gallery: The Inspiring Journey of Jiří, the Artist Who Painted on Sheets
When Jiří first began his artistic journey, he had no money, no canvases, and no frames. Instead, he painted on sheets and stretched them on boards he found near garbage cans. Today, his work is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of art to heal and inspire.
The Eyes That See no Future
Jiří’s paintings often feature animals, but they are unique in one striking way: they lack eyes.”They don’t have them because they don’t see the future.They don’t know what will happen to them and if they will ever see their forest friends again, to put it childishly.They don’t know what happened,they don’t know if they will survive the winter,” Jiří explains.
This poignant symbolism reflects his own struggles with uncertainty and anxiety. Jiří studied painting, graphics, and photography at FAMU in Prague before spending a year in Ústí nad Labem under the mentorship of Jiří Kovanda in the performance studio. From there,he went on to UMPRUM,one of the most prestigious art schools in the Czech Republic.
A journey Through Depression and Rediscovery
Jiří’s path to becoming an artist was far from easy. “I had zero self-confidence because I was bullied in elementary school. my classmates in high school were also incredibly talented. So I preferred to resort to something that calmed me internally,and that was photography,” he recalls.After completing his studies in photography at FAMU, Jiří applied to the performance studio in Ústí nad Labem. “it was just during covid. I fell into horrible depression and anxiety and for the first time in my life I started taking antidepressants. My good friend partially signed me up to Jiří Kovanda’s studio, which saved me,” he says.
It was during this period that Jiří rediscovered his love for painting. “At that time, I started painting again. I exhausted the photo for myself because I couldn’t express myself in it the way I wanted to,” he explains.
Painting on Sheets and Found Boards
With limited resources, Jiří turned to unconventional materials. “At first I painted at home,in a room that no one used very much. I took a corner there and at first I painted on papers, then I started buying sheets and stretching them on boards I found in the bins, because I didn’t have money for frames and canvases,” he laughs.
Despite these humble beginnings, Jiří’s work has evolved into something extraordinary. He draws inspiration from contemporary painters like Nicola Samori, George Rouy, Laing FU, and Niklas Asker, blending their influences with his unique perspective.
Key Highlights of Jiří’s Artistic Journey
| Aspect | details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Early Struggles | Bullied in school, lacked self-confidence, turned to photography for solace. |
| Education | Studied painting, graphics, and photography at FAMU and UMPRUM. |
| Turning Point | Joined Jiří Kovanda’s performance studio during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| Artistic Style | paints animals without eyes to symbolize uncertainty and vulnerability. |
| Materials Used | Painted on sheets and boards found near garbage cans due to financial constraints. |
| Inspirations | inspired by Nicola Samori, George Rouy, laing FU, and Niklas asker.|
A Message of Hope and resilience
Jiří’s story is a powerful reminder that art can emerge from the most unlikely places. His journey from painting on discarded materials to creating thought-provoking works of art is a testament to his determination and creativity.
As Jiří continues to explore new mediums and themes, his work serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. Whether it’s through the eyes of his animals or the materials he uses, jiří’s art speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of creativity.
Photo: Tomáš VocelkaArt as salvation: Jiří’s Journey Through Painting and the Apocalypse
For Jiří, a painter on the brink of completing his thirteen-year art education, painting is more than a creative outlet—it’s a lifeline. “I don’t want to sound dramatic, but creation really keeps me going,” he confesses. “It’s the main reason why I leave the house in the morning. It makes me feel good to be alone in the studio, listening to music and having a constant dialogue with the canvas. Thanks to painting, I started to like myself for the first time in my life.”
This intimate connection with his craft is evident in every stroke. Jiří describes the process of creating as deeply therapeutic.“I love the whole process from the very beginning, just simply hammering the frame onto the picture and stretching the canvas. Direct physical contact with the canvas is incredibly calming and satisfying for me.in addition, the studio is a 100% safe space for me, where I don’t think about anything but the paintings. I feel good in this state of mind.”
As he prepares to present his final diploma thesis in May, Jiří is weaving together themes of art, theology, and environmental urgency.His theoretical work will explore the Revelation of John, the final book of the New Testament, drawing parallels between its apocalyptic visions and contemporary studies on climate change. “I will compare visions of the apocalypse with current studies on climate change,” he explains.
The practical component of his thesis will feature four large-format paintings depicting the horses of the horsemen of the apocalypse.True to his artistic style,the canvases will feature only animals,devoid of human figures. “the paintings will be located in the studio of the fictitious painter Jan, which I will create together with the architect, and the whole thing will be connected by Jan’s story,” Jiří reveals.
This project marks the culmination of a transformative chapter in his life. “I will leave my twenties in my diploma. It is saying goodbye to the most vital chapter of my life so far—studying art—which shaped me and made me the person I am today,” he reflects.
Key Highlights of Jiří’s Artistic Journey
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Inspiration | Painting as a therapeutic and life-affirming practice |
| Diploma Thesis Theme | Apocalyptic visions in Revelation of John compared to climate change |
| artistic Focus | Four large-format paintings of the horsemen’s horses, devoid of human figures |
| Studio Concept | Fictitious painter Jan’s studio, created with an architect |
| Personal Reflection | A farewell to his twenties and the transformative power of art education |
Jiří’s work is a testament to the power of art to heal, provoke, and inspire. By merging ancient apocalyptic imagery with modern environmental concerns, he invites viewers to reflect on humanity’s relationship with the planet. His journey reminds us that art is not just a medium of expression but a sanctuary for the soul.
As Jiří steps into the next phase of his life,his story serves as a call to action for artists and audiences alike: to engage deeply with the world around us,to find solace in creation,and to confront the challenges of our time with creativity and courage.What role does art play in your life? Share your thoughts and join the conversation about the intersection of art, climate change, and personal change.
Jiří’s story is a profound testament to the transformative power of art, resilience, and the human spirit. His journey from painting on discarded materials to creating deeply symbolic and evocative works is a narrative of hope, struggle, and triumph. Let’s delve deeper into the key themes and lessons from his inspiring journey.
The Power of Art to Heal
Jiří’s story underscores the therapeutic and redemptive qualities of art. For him, painting became a sanctuary during his darkest moments, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic when he battled depression and anxiety.his art not only provided a creative outlet but also became a means of self-discovery and self-acceptance.As he puts it, “Thanks to painting, I started to like myself for the first time in my life.” This sentiment resonates with many who turn to art as a form of healing and self-expression.
Symbolism in Jiří’s Work
Jiří’s paintings often feature animals without eyes, a striking and poignant choice that reflects his own struggles with uncertainty and vulnerability.“They don’t have eyes as they don’t see the future,” he explains.This metaphor extends to his personal journey, where he faced an uncertain path, financial constraints, and emotional turmoil. The absence of eyes in his animal subjects serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the unknown future that lies ahead.
resourcefulness and Creativity
Jiří’s resourcefulness is a testament to his determination and ingenuity.With no money for canvases or frames, he turned to unconventional materials—painting on sheets and stretching them on boards he found near garbage bins. This humble beginning highlights the idea that creativity is not bound by resources but thrives in the face of limitations. Jiří’s ability to transform discarded materials into meaningful art is a metaphor for his own conversion from despair to hope.
Inspiration from Contemporary Artists
Jiří draws inspiration from contemporary painters like Nicola Samori, George Rouy, Laing FU, and Niklas asker. their influence is evident in his work, which blends classical techniques with modern themes. By studying and incorporating elements from these artists, Jiří has developed a unique style that speaks to both his personal experiences and broader human emotions.
Key lessons from Jiří’s Journey
- Art as a Lifeline: Jiří’s story reminds us that art can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery,especially during times of crisis.
- Resilience in Adversity: Despite financial constraints and emotional struggles, Jiří persevered, proving that creativity can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances.
- Symbolism and Storytelling: His use of symbolism,such as the eyeless animals,demonstrates how art can convey complex emotions and narratives.
- Resourcefulness: Jiří’s ability to create art from discarded materials is a lesson in making the most of what we have and finding beauty in the unexpected.
A Message of Hope
jiří’s journey is a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and anyone facing adversity. His story shows that art is not just about creating beautiful works but also about finding meaning, purpose, and connection in the process. As Jiří continues to explore new mediums and themes, his work serves as a reminder that creativity has the power to transform lives and inspire others.
Final Thoughts
Jiří’s journey from painting on sheets to gaining recognition for his art is a powerful narrative of resilience and creativity. His story encourages us to embrace our own struggles, find beauty in the unexpected, and use art as a means of self-expression and healing. Whether through his eyeless animals or his resourceful use of materials, Jiří’s work speaks to the universal human experience of uncertainty, hope, and the enduring power of creativity.
Photo: Tomáš Vocelka
Inspired by Jiří’s journey, let us all cherish the landscapes—both literal and metaphorical—that define our own stories.
