AS IS | David Krňanský

From Prague, Czechia

Based in Prague and Athens

Hyperbole and elementarity characterize the pieces that come out of David Krňanský's studio. They show when he expresses his thoughts with words as well - with directness, honesty, and brevity

Photo credit: Filip Beránek

A: Please, tell us a bit more about yourself. What brought you into art?

D: My first encounter with art happened when I was 15 or 16 years old during my visit to a friend's place. We hadn't seen each other since we stopped talking as kids. He showed me his paintings; his Picasso-esque style impressed me.

A: What inspires you the most?

D: The life itself.

A: Do you have any specific rituals while working (creating)?

D: I try to go work in my studio every working day if possible, and I always stop for a cup of coffee on the way. I prefer to walk there; it helps me organize my thoughts better.

A: What would you recommend to someone who's new to art (an artist or just an admirer), what to begin with?

D: The most important thing is to listen to your heart, to not let too much influence from the outside in.

A: Your top 3 adjectives related to art?

D: Every piece of art is unique and deserves a commentary most fitting for it.

A: Could you please share your favorite Czech artists?

D: I have many favorite artists, across generations.

A: What piece of art do you think embodies the Czech national spirit and culture? Why?

D: The greatest symbol and a piece of art might be the state itself. It's formed performatively, collectively, and creatively, while at the same time being elusive and often incomprehensible. :)

Photo credit: Filippos Krik

A: What is the best way to start a conversation about art?

D: Usually my conversations with fellow artists are critique-oriented. But it's good to converse about art in general as well, to be aware of the effect artworks have on us and what kind of feelings they elicit when we look at them. These days, art heavily reflects social change, so it's useful to follow art and use these experiences to constantly challenge ourselves.

A: Where can we meet you?

D: If I'm not in my studio or with my family, my favorite place to spend time is in nature, which helps me regain my inner peace.

A: Please, share your favorite quote or idea (not necessarily related to art).

D: Life is just a dream and the dream is just a dream, too.

Thank you!

For more: visit and IG