Artospective: Abstract Paintings by Juro Kralovic from Canada.

Abstract Paintings by Juro Kralovic from Canada. Contemporary Art

Sector

An Interview with Juro Kralovic.

Who and where are you from?

My name is Juro Kralovic, born in the former Czechoslovakia in 1983, currently living and working out of Edmonton, Alberta (Canada).

How did you get into this?

I started drawing at an early age, and later it became a tool of rebellion in a dogmatic post-communistic school system. Coming from a liberal and creative upbringing, I chose to study at The School of Applied Arts in Bratislava (Stone sculpture department). My mother is a successful abstract painter and interior designer, so growing up in the environment shaped my perception of aesthetics and creative process.

After studies, I joined armed forces for mandatory service which along with my passion for martial arts, gave me much needed self discipline, a tool that I use in everyday life and painting/art. After the army, I started working at a wood shop where I acquired new skills working with wood and building furniture. In the years of establishing a new life, family, and small contracting business in a new Country, most of my creativity was pushed aside. In recent years I started unleashing the urge to create with smaller projects like furniture, wood art, and experimenting with wood stains.

Everything I've learned an experienced in my life translates into the work I do now.

What is the driving force?

I would say is the sensation of freedom, its a momentary escape from this structured, controlled, and overwhelming world and society. It's my protest against fake smiles, political correctness, and small mindedness. On the other hand, its a medium to connect with like minded people and expand my horizons, it also brings me joy when my art leaves a positive impact. My interest in everything controversial, mystical, and abandoned transfers to my work. Maybe its the ego or rebellious personality that likes to challenge the old world taboos and status quo.

What kind of work do you do an why?

Mostly abstract, occasionally portrait. Sculpture and abstract expressionism and street art art my main sources of inspiration, everything else is observing environment, nature and accidental man made beauty. I love working with contrast and bold colors. My tool box is very limited, simplicity keeps it fun while I'm still open to experimenting. My goal is to make paintings bigger than life which I think is impossible, so this is why I won't stop trying.