Motiejus Stonys is an artist whose path to painting began in an entirely unplanned way. It all started with a simple household accident: a water pipe broke. While on the hunt for replacement parts, Stonys happened upon a discounted box of acrylic paints. This accidental discovery sparked a sudden urge to reawaken his creative side. What began as a mere distraction from plumbing repairs soon developed into a deep passion, unleashing a torrent of ideas and images demanding to be transferred to canvas. The mishap resulted in more than just a physical mess; it also marked the beginning of a new and vibrant phase in his creative life.
Stonys’ artistic practice provides a distinctive lens through which to experience the world’s richness and intricacy. His paintings are recognized for their impulsive and unpredictable qualities, with each canvas capturing a particular instant or scenario. He frequently introduces unusual figures and their activities, infusing his works with intrigue and an unpredictable, story-like quality. For Stonys, inspiration typically appears out of nowhere, resulting in bold compositions that often take even him by surprise.
For Stonys, the act of creating is as ever-changing as the paintings themselves. His works regularly shift and transform before reaching their final state, with new modifications and ideas emerging in brief moments of inspiration. This ongoing process of reassessment and adjustment renders his artworks “alive,” evolving continuously until a title is finally assigned. Such a method guarantees that each piece truly mirrors a creative evolution, filled with energy and motion.
Adding a personal and whimsical dimension, every work by Motiejus Stonys is signed by his dog, Baba. More than a signature, Baba is an essential member of the studio, serving both as a supervisor and a source of inspiration. The artist deeply values her discernment, making sure that each painting measures up to her approval before it is complete. Baba’s presence infuses the studio with companionship, playfulness, and genuineness, enriching not only the working process but also the very spirit of Stonys’ singular artistic vision.
About this artwork+
This artwork by Motiejus Stonys, titled "You can't hide an Elephant," presents a surreal and imaginative scene. It shows an elephant covered with what looks like a heavy blanket. The blanket's deep red contrasts sharply with the elephant's dark grey skin. Oddly, the elephant's legs have transformed into long, yellow shapes that resemble tentacles. These tentacles are sadly anchored to the ground by chains. Above, a tiny figure stands on top of the covered elephant, under a night sky scattered with stars and dominated by a large, cloudy formation. The style is surreal, blending dream-like elements with realistic detail. Stonys has created a scene filled with emotion, enhanced by the striking use of color and the imaginative distortion of the elephant. This piece evokes a sense of weight and the unnatural constraints placed upon a majestic creature.
