Petr Kvíčala / Waves

Petr Kvíčala / Waves


1984–2008


Curator: Tomáš Pospiszyl
The painter Petr Kvíčala (*1960) has been involved in experimenting with ornamentation
since the mid–1980’s. His visual vernacular is based on repeated lines, most often
undulating, but also broken or looping lines – combined, multiplied, overlapping,
superimposed. The rhythmic pattern of lines and coloured surfaces refers to prehistoric art
and folk ornamentation, classical modernism and contemporary abstraction. He is on a
permanent quest for novel artistic expression. Recently he has taken interest in optical
effects generated by multiplying geometrical patterns and colours. His work spans
processual painting, monochromes and painting installations.
The exhibition is arranged chronologically in reverse order – from the current output to the
artist’s beginnings - and, although Kvíčala is also active in the fields of architecture and
design, it concentrates on his painterly work. His paintings do not require long explanations
– the principles at play are easily revealed. Observing Kvíčala’s paintings raises awareness
and brings aesthetic pleasure. His works are capable of invoking states close to meditation
or nervous excitement, all having in common the same conceptual approach. The unity of
the artistic principles employed is best appreciated when confronted with a great number of
his paintings for which this retrospective provides a rare opportunity.
Every last Wednesday of the month, presentation with author‘s comments.