Dalius Regelskis, an accomplished artist and architect, was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania. Over the course of more than twenty years, he has devoted his career to designing private interiors, traveling, and depicting urban architecture in his artworks. Alongside his creative endeavors, Dalius holds a professorship at the Vilnius Academy of Arts, where he imparts his knowledge and enthusiasm to students.
As a young man, Dalius was captivated by the hidden corners of Vilnius Old Town. In those days, with courtyard gates still open, he would explore every courtyard and uncover secret passages, often choosing these shortcuts over the main streets. His artistic journey began at the Vilnius Art School, where he studied graphic arts under the supervision of the celebrated Lithuanian graphic artist Petras Repšys. He later pursued further studies at the Vilnius Academy of Arts, specializing in architecture.
Each summer, Dalius travels to Crete with his wife, drawing inspiration from the island’s extraordinary architecture, rich historical legacy, and the lively character of local culture. The customs and people of Crete have left their mark on his work, with some pieces accompanied by mantinades—traditional Cretan poems—specially composed for his drawings by a local Greek from a nearby village.
New York City serves as another major source of inspiration for Dalius, offering him fresh experiences and creative insights. In his representations of New York, he delves into the city’s architectural contrasts, unified by the recurring image of the ONE WAY road sign. According to the artist, this sign goes beyond its functional meaning and instead serves as a personal symbol, representing the pursuit of an individual life path—a theme highlighted by his unique black-and-white graphic technique.
About this artwork+
The painting features an aged, weathered wooden door imbued with a sense of history, marked with signs of decay and long-term exposure to the elements. The paint on the door is prominently chipped and peeling in various shades of teal, exposing the underlying wood. Various markings and graffiti adorn the door, suggesting its interaction with many people over time. The door is set within a rough, stone-framed archway, with the stonework also appearing aged and worn, contributing to the rustic charm of the scene. The number "39" is affixed near the top of the doorframe, and handwritten text in Greek flows around the edges of the door, further enhancing its cultural context. A plaque at the bottom of the artwork features the word "Rethymno," anchoring the door to a specific location.
