News

Thalo Spotlight Artist Zdenka Kovalcikova

Thalo loves to promote artists and each month we spotlight a member of our community! 

This month we are pleased to have Zdenka Kovalcikova as the thalo Spotlight Artist for March 2020! 

 

"Black-Eyed Susan" - 30x30 - Acrylic Paint - @zdenkafineart

 

 

Thalo Team: Can you give an “elevator pitch” of your work?

Zdenka Kovalcikova: I am an accomplished artist, trained in Europe with over 30 years of experience in the art industry. In my painting career, flowers and organic forms became my focus. I participate in art exhibitions and currently teach art classes. I'm experienced in watercolors, oil technique and mainly express my creativity through acrylics.

 

TT:  What is your artwork about, and what do you want people to take from it?

ZK: I found joy in exploring acrylic painting techniques while developing skills in creating  contemporary floral paintings. Florals are beautiful way to engage with color, light, shape, movement and texture. Its through process of painting that I feel inspired, learn and grow.

 

TT: Which artists do you feel have influenced your art the most?

ZK:  I admire and respect several artists, but I am the most influenced by Henri Matisse, Andre Derain, Bobbie Burgers, Caroline Jasper, Robert Burridge.

 

"Blooming Power" - 30x30 - Acrylic Paint - @zdenkafineart

 

TT: Where do you like to present your work, and why? (Galleries, website, social media, etc.)

ZK:  I have more opportunities to show my art like with art group which I am member of at Visual Arts Mississauga and outdoor Show and Sale  - Art in the Park in Oakville, Facebook. My work is mostly available on my website. I like  personal contact to share my artworks.. art connects people… art lovers are happy.

 

TT: Do you feel like your work has evolved? If so, how?

ZK: Yes, I do have this feeling, I focus on improving of my technique skills. All paintings are lessons for the next. It is ongoing learning process increasing skills for future work.

 

TT: Do you have any tips or advice for fellow artists based off of your experiences thus far?

ZK: It takes a while to find your style, be patient, practice and be honest, learn fundamentals before you brake the rules, observe the nature, study the masters, visit galleries. Learning technique is important, but passion is what matters.

 

"Bold Blooms" - 24x24 - Acrylic Paint - @zdenkafineart

 

TT: What are you working on right now, and why?

ZK: I work on series of small size of canvases, Flowers in glass vases. I like to challenge my self capturing light on glass, shapes and colors that create the illusion of clear glass and water.

 

TT: What would you consider to be your "biggest achievement" with your work thus far?

ZK: Being mentioned in juried shows, teaching art classes,  its is so rewarding to see people enjoy their own creativity and being proud of their creation. As a mural painter also, I have created highly realistic, scenic murals in past years after I move to Canada. These works decorate many mostly residential places in great area of Toronto.

 

TT: What was your first work of art that you were proud of making? Where is it now?

ZK: It was 35 years ago  and that time I was doing a lot of small watercolor paintings, larger pieces of wax batiks and small oil paintings. Lots of my first work is in Slovakia and Germany.

 

"Happy Petals" - 24x24 - Acrylic Paint - @zdenkafineart

 

TT: Do you take commissions? Why or why not?

ZK: Yes I do. I am open to the new opportunities. I have done many commissioned work, especially scenic large murals, as well large size of canvases.

 

TT: What do you do when you aren't working on art (hobbies, job, etc.)?

ZK:  For the last eight years I worked as a Floral Designer which I enjoyed at Michaels Arts &Crafts and instructing art classes, I currently teach Art classes at Art Gallery of Burlington. I help students at all painting levels to find their talent, love and passion for art. They learn how to achieve harmonious painting with limited palette and by painting on toned canvas.

 

TT: How do you overcome art blocks?

ZK: The creative struggle is real. I don’t force myself. Spending some time around the nature, fills me always with good energy, listening to music, cleaning up my studio space. Inspiration comes, when my mind is clear.

 

"Late Summer" - 30x30 - Acrylic Paint - @zdenkafineart

 

TT: Where do you see your work taking you in the next 5-10 years?

ZK: I worked hard to get where I am now, I would like to present pieces of florals and landscapes more abstract way and connect with people who appreciate art.

 

TT: Is there something that you would like to share with us that we have not covered that pertains to you   and your work?last exhibitions

ZK: Artists usually work in solitude, but it is rewarding, I find painting is an art therapy.

 

TT: If you have links for your website, Facebook page, Instagram, Twitter, etc. that you would like to share, please include these addresses below.

 

https://sites.google.com/site/zdenkafineart

Zdenka Kovalcikova on Facebook