Forms
Maker
Pravoslav Kotik
(Czech, 1889-1970)
Date1959
MediumGouache on laid paper
Dimensions12 3/4 x 10 1/2 in. (32.4 x 26.7 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. Lee A. Freeman, Jr.
Object number1985.95
Object TypeDrawings
On View
Not on view
Pravoslav Kotík’s early works were primarily figural and landscape paintings, which he saw as commentaries on contemporary social life in Europe. After World War II, there was a strong push by the new Communist regime in Czechoslovakia for artists to embrace the style of Socialist Realism. Kotík refused to paint in this style, instead entering into his first abstract period. Throughout the 1950s and 60s he was harassed, but not persecuted, by the Czechoslovakian State Cultural Authorities.
Forms is a prime example of Kotík’s post-war work. While immediately abstract, upon closer viewing the central form materializes as an almost mechanical structure. Red and orange shapes emerge from the black and grey background pulling the eye forward, creating a sense of movement. In this work Kotík utilizes color as a major expressive aspect, creating a strong contrast between the background and the main form.
Forms is a prime example of Kotík’s post-war work. While immediately abstract, upon closer viewing the central form materializes as an almost mechanical structure. Red and orange shapes emerge from the black and grey background pulling the eye forward, creating a sense of movement. In this work Kotík utilizes color as a major expressive aspect, creating a strong contrast between the background and the main form.
