Gitas Markutis is acknowledged in the modern art world as a creator of contemporary landscapes. His artwork often showcases locations across Lithuania, many of which are easily recognizable to viewers. Yet, Markutis possesses a singular ability to portray these places in such a way that they at first appear unfamiliar, prompting viewers to rediscover the scenes through his artistic vision.
He finds inspiration in the subtle allure of Lithuanian nature, recognizing that not every sight is visually striking by default. Markutis has observed that imagination is essential for elevating ordinary views into captivating works of art. He candidly discusses the difficulties involved in creating, emphasizing that not every painting is an instant triumph, but persistence is a vital part of his practice: "In painting, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, but I always try to win back."
A defining feature of Markutis’s work is his method of breaking landscapes down into geometric shapes, incorporating decorative contour lines alongside bold color contrasts. Even when he chooses more neutral and natural shades, he modifies their proportions to create a novel effect. His compositions frequently present a harmonious relationship between natural scenery and elements of human achievement, such as architectural structures, allowing both historic buildings and nature to enhance each other's splendor.
The most striking aspect of Gitas Markutis’s paintings is his lively, expressive brushstrokes, which convey a gentle motion reminiscent of a soft breeze. His imaginative approaches to composition also present viewers with unexpected viewpoints, at times verging on the abstract. Through this blend of technical skill and creative vision, Markutis invites viewers to experience familiar landscapes through completely new perspectives.
About this artwork+
The painting depicts a vibrant and dynamic urban landscape where the onset of spring seems imminent. The foreground features a river, rendered in expressive blues and whites, suggesting the cool, fluid presence of water breaking free from the remnants of winter's ice. Bridges, painted in soft grays, arch gracefully over the water, connecting various parts of the cityscape. On either side of the river, the land rises up. To the left, a cliff face or hillside is depicted in warm, red and brown tones, contrasting sharply with the cooler river hues. The city itself is spread across the background in a splash of colors, predominantly whites and reds dotting the terrain, indicating buildings packed closely together. The trees interspersed among the structures are still bare, with thin, dark branches awaiting their spring foliage. Above this scene, the sky is a wash of light blue, yellow, and gray strokes, perhaps signaling a change in weather, with brighter and warmer days ahead promised by the soft light diffusing through the clouds. The entire painting captures a moment of transition and anticipation, with the urban environment on the cusp of embracing a rejuvenating spring. The brushwork is loose and vigorous, adding to the sense of energy and renewal that spring brings to a city eager to shed the barren, cold months.
