AS IS | Lubomír Typlt

Artist

From the Podkrkonosi region (former Czechoslovakia)

Based in Prague and Picin, Czechia

What a story! We interviewed incredible Lubomír Typlt - about his art journey, Czech art scene, tips for those who are just starting their creative journey, and many more

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

L: I am 46 years old. I was born in Podkrkonosi in Czechoslovakia, in 1975. I studied in Czechia as well in Düsseldorf, Germany. My focus is on figure painting.

I found my way to art quite naturally. Even as a kid I only ever wanted to paint. I was lucky enough to get into all the art schools I wanted, which made my journey much easier. Vaclav Hollar Art School in Prague was a great beginning to my artistic development. Then followed the Academy of Arts, Architecture, and Design in Prague, Faculty of Fine Arts in Brno, and finally Kunstakademie in Düsseldorf.

A: What inspires you the most?

L: I am inspired by the creative process itself. Ideas are brought forth by layering like snowballs. Luckily, I have never struggled with a lack of inspiration.

New ideas come to me during sketching. It's the quickest way for an artist to capture their vision.

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

L: My main habit is going to the studio regularly. Your muse won't help you unless you talk to it, and the conversation happens exactly when you dive into creation. You can't just talk about painting, it has to be done. That's why I avoid theorizing - the concept of painting is a very important thing, but a personal one at that. Everyone needs to find their own formula.

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

L: First I'd recommend the artist-beginner considering if it's really the right path for them. Most people can't make a living creating art, and it's not a part-time job, either. If you don't give it all, you can't expect anything in return. If you do give it all, you still may not achieve success. That can be a source of great frustration.

I know what I'm talking about, I had to wait till 35 for success myself.

A: Your top 3 favorite adjectives related to art?

L: If we're talking about an extraordinary piece, then three words won't ever be enough to express awe. If it's a piece I don't like, then I only need one word. We can all fill in the blank with our own favorite word signifying excrement.

A: Your favorite Czech artists?

L: The Czech art scene has many exquisite artists. The ones who have impressed me the most are Jiri Naceradsky, Zdenek Sykora, Toyen, Styrsky, Kubista, Frantisek Janousek.

A: Which art piece embodies the Czech national spirit? Why?

L: I think that would be Saint Sebastian by Bohumil Kubista. We Czechs understand this piece as a collaboration of our ever-present baroque tradition with modern art. We are not as light and elegant as the French. Seldom do we come close to the expressivity of the Germans. I think often our way is in uniting content with form and rationality.

Just like in this painting.

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

L: I tend to avoid conversations about art. I am not interested in talking about the art I like with just anyone. It assumes a certain level of knowledge, and if I find my conversation partner lacking in this sense, I'd rather chat about the weather.

A: Where can we meet you?

L: You can't meet me in my studio because I don't let just anyone in there. Only collectors and a handful of friends are allowed. I do drop my son off at the daycare regularly - that's where you can meet me.

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

L: My father had a beautiful motto:

Who listens to someone else's head is shitting in his own.

That's the greatest piece of advice for an artist! If they want to bring something new to the table, they must find their own way.

Thank you!

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