“Art Embracing Awareness” in Mixed Media

Frantisek Strouhal, frantisekstrouhal.com, was born in Moravia from a family of painters and artists. He currently lives in western Canada. As a creator of exquisite mixed media artwork, which he has titled “Art Embracing Awareness”, he is internationally admired for his flawless use of traditional 19th century techniques combined with his unique contemporary  yet timeless artistic vision. The mixed media artist employs photography, digital collage, contact printing and lithography inks on watercolor papers.

He captures figures in dreamlike metaphysical realms. The human form is essential to Strouhal’s art work which he describes as “the most universal symbol of beauty that can stir and satisfy the mind and heart.”

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. DO NOT REPRODUCE IMAGES WITHOUT THE ARTIST’S PERMISSION.

A TALE HAS BEEN BORN, oil printing/mixed media, 20″ x 23″

Figures seem to emerge from a surreal, dreamlike pool of warm sepia tones as if bathed or suspended in an ethereal vapor.  As he explains, “Light and texture play the important role of portraying the energy and strength which emanate from beneath the surface of the subjects.”

A myriad of translucent layers and tonal variations enhance the seductive and mesmerizing appeal of his artwork. They are reminiscent of works by Odd Nerdrum, who was influenced by Caravaggio.

BLISSFUL REVERIE, oil printing/mixed media, 24″ x 20″

“My imagery is meant to serve as an oasis of tranquility, permanence and strength and to capture and highlight what is fundamental to our being and society”.

Strouhal’s subjects transcend their physical qualities and evoke an immediate visceral response in the viewer.  They speak to us about the mysterious and complex human experience. They provoke inquiry and reflection upon such notions as transformation in the metaphysical realm of existence.

As the artist explains, “One of its essential aspects explores thoughts and inspirations of an existential nature and investigates the interaction and harmony between the spiritual and the physical world.”

THE TREE OF LIFE, oil printing/mixed media, 24″ x 20″

“The Tree of Life”  was selected for the 2024 Signature Associate Exhibition at the Federation Gallery on Granville Island in Vancouver, August 19 – September 8. The exhibition showcases the exceptional artwork of the Federation of Canadian Artists’ Signature Members.

His choices of brushes, papers, textures and lithographic inks determine the quality of his images. It takes him many hours to build up a depth of ink, layer by layer, to create the desired image. “The processes I use are slow but intense; the result is an image that asks for that time back from the viewer. The painstaking craftsmanship this technique requires brings a sense of intimacy to my art.”

Strouhal believes that as an artist, “you have to synthesize thousands of seconds of seeing and reflect deeply on each step of the process.”

THE TIME KEEPER, oil printing/mixed media, 20″ x 24″

Frantisek Strouhal has had numerous solo exhibitions in British Columbia. His many group exhibitions in the United States and Canada include the 2014-15 Federation of Canadian Artists Gallery in Vancouver.

He is a recipient of the Gold Medal at the Rotary Centre of the Arts in Kelowna, B.C. for his artwork titled “Time to Breathe” which was also selected for the Manhattan Arts International curated art exhibition “The Healing Power of ART”, 2015.

One of Frantisek’s works of art was selected for “The Healing Power of Color” 2024 Invitational Exhibition and “The Healing Power of Color” 2023  juried exhibition presented by The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS online art gallery, which is an initiative of Manhattan Arts International. He was also selected for “Inspirational Art in Mixed Media”.

Mystique, oil printing/mixed media, 20″ x 24″

Frantisek received Awards of Merit at both American Juried Art Salon’s International Fine Art Show and Decorative Arts International Show.

The artist explains, “My work is a reflection of my own personal renaissance. In this fast paced world, at times loud, and discordant the need to go back to our roots, to strengthen the wholesomeness of our being keeps emerging from our conscience. “

The ever-changing narrative approach is an integral part of his artistic process. He states, “This work exists to connect with others in contemplation, and peace. It is not static, but invites interaction.”

Banner image: detail of “Aurora”.

Visit Frantisek Strouhal’s website frantisekstrouhal.com

Join Frantisek Strouhal on Social Media
Facebook: frantisekstrouhal2015
Twitter: frantisekstrou1
LinkedIn: frantisek-strouhal-88604245
Instagram: frantisekstrouhal