Artwork in the room
Rūta Levulienė is an artist whose paintings investigate the connections among the environment, nature, and people. In her work, she addresses themes of fresh air and the vital bond linking humanity to the natural world. Drawing on motifs from a distilled reality and utilizing sources such as photographs, internet imagery, and video materials, she weaves intricate and meaningful dialogues between humans and nature.
In her creative process, Levulienė combines elements of fragmentation and unity within these relationships. Frequently, her compositions feature fragmented spaces and figures, highlighting the apparent separation between humans and nature. At other times, she leans towards depicting more peaceful and solid spaces that evoke a sense of harmony and calm. This interplay is characteristic of her style, balancing dynamic energy with tranquil moments.
Her painting technique is just as expressive, making use of both thick, pastose brushstrokes and delicate, thin layers of paint. Levulienė often rubs pigment into the canvas, resulting in a tactile surface that recalls the invigorating feeling of fresh air. Through this sensory approach, her works convey rejuvenation and visually depict emotional renewal—what she refers to as refreshment for the soul.
Rūta Levulienė's art has been shown in Lithuania, Ireland, Norway, and the United States. She has presented nine solo exhibitions, participated in twenty group shows, and joined eight plein air painting events, underscoring her active presence within both local and international art communities.
About this artwork+
The painting depicts a surreal, abstract portrayal of a figure, possibly viewed from the back. The left side features a head swathed in vibrant purple and lilac blooms that almost mask the features beneath, suggesting a floral crown or halo. Below this, hints of a slender body emerge, draped in pink and subtle earth tones, intersected by a fine black line, possibly indicating a garment's strap or the figure's outline. The right side of the composition transitions into softer, more muted expressions with a significant portion dominated by pale, flesh-like tones and gentle washes of color. Here, darker elements, possibly hair or part of the figure's clothing, swirl around areas of soft blues and violets, intermingling with the paler background to create a sense of depth and abstraction. Overall, the painting exudes a dreamlike, ethereal quality, with its loose, dynamic brushstrokes and the elusive interplay of form and void.
