Šarūnas Šarkauskas, born in 1967 in Kaunas, began developing his artistic abilities at a local four-year art school. Although his subsequent efforts to obtain a formal art education were unsuccessful, painting has continued to be a steadfast and lifelong pursuit for him.
Šarkauskas has held exhibitions in both Vilnius and Kaunas over the course of his career, consistently attracting the interest of attendees. His shows are seen as successful, with visitors drawn in by the unique style and vibrancy present in his art.
The artist himself openly discusses his complicated bond with painting, jokingly stating, "I tried to escape from painting, but it keeps catching up with me." This remark captures the abiding and passionate tie he has to his artistic work.
Museologist Audronė Meškauskaitė has characterized Šarkauskas’ paintings as exuberant with color, marked by bright, joyful contrasts. In her view, his clear and transparent brushstrokes impart a sense of lightness and balance, allowing the elements of his compositions to come together in an unexpectedly harmonious way.
About this artwork+
The painting "Sunflower Thief III" by Šarūnas Šarkauskas shows a vivid, dense thicket of sunflowers. These flowers are rich in colors, ranging from bright yellows to deep browns, mixed with hints of red and blue. They fill almost the entire canvas, creating a feeling of lushness and vitality. The style is quite textured and layered. Šarkauskas uses thick, expressive strokes that give an almost three-dimensional look. You can see various lines and shapes interwoven, suggesting movement and chaos within the natural order. The use of color is particularly striking. Bright colors against a muted background make the central elements stand out. Blue and red streaks add a contrasting vibrancy, drawing the eye across the painting. Šarūnas Šarkauskas is known for his unique approach to texture and form, which is clearly visible here. This work feels both dynamic and organic, capturing the wild spirit of a blooming field caught in a moment of time.
