Artwork in the room
Rytas Jurgelis, a prominent Lithuanian artist, has been a member of the Union of Lithuanian Artists since 1995. Over the course of his career, he has held almost thirty solo exhibitions, presenting his work throughout Lithuania and abroad. His ongoing engagement with the arts scene underscores both his substantial contribution and the recognition he has earned within the artistic community.
Jurgelis’s paintings stand out for their distinct treatment of color and texture and for his steadfast admiration of geometric shapes, particularly the square. This combination produces an impressive range of artwork, yet there remains a gentle lyricism unmistakable in his style. By repeatedly incorporating squares, he brings both structure and formal clarity to his compositions.
Instead of emphasizing color contrasts, Jurgelis seeks harmony and the combined effect of hues. In his art, color becomes a vehicle for conveying emotional states, enriched by the tangible specifics of oil paint. He highlights the material nature of his medium through various finishes—matte or glossy—as well as through texture, sgraffito, and pronounced relief. Through a careful process of adding layer upon layer, he achieves surfaces that distinctly display their method of creation, appealing to both the eye and the touch.
These densely layered, textured surfaces do more than create unique visual and emotional environments—they also suggest connections to other senses, like taste or scent. Each square field in his paintings serves as a platform for emotional interplay or unspoken stories, encouraging viewers to interpret them through the lens of their own experience. Jurgelis subtly directs the viewer’s response with gentle hints, while deliberately maintaining ample room for personal interpretation and emotional engagement.
About this artwork+
The painting depicts a richly textured and abstract scene, characterized by a dynamic combination of both dark and vibrant colors. Dominated by a deep, textured black background, the canvas is illuminated with flashes of gold, crimson, and white, suggesting both contrast and harmony. Distinct, layered brushstrokes and the spattering of paint create an effect of depth and complexity. Various abstract forms seem to float and intertwine across the canvas, giving a feeling of motion and energy. At the center, there appears to be a circular motif, possibly mechanical in nature, rendered in shades of orange, red, and cream—this swirl seems almost like a focal point amidst the chaos. Lines and dots of white, possibly suggesting light or reflection, add intrigue and a hint of order to the otherwise tumultuous visual field. The overall effect is one of dynamic balance and intense emotional expression.
