Painter Kryštof Novotný presents his new exhibition of self-portraits titled Amaryllis, which highlights the connection between art and the inner world of the artist. The paintings were created between 2017 and 2025 and explore personal transformation. This project, developed over nine years, includes annual self-portraits that not only capture the artist’s emotions but also his ability to transform painful memories into inspiration for the future. The project brings to light the psychological and emotional processes connected to the past and the personal context that has shaped the artist's identity. Strong symbols in the individual self-portraits reveal a personal story and offer an opportunity to reflect on how each painting forms part of a broader life narrative. The self-portraits function as diaries, through which one can read the artist’s inner struggles, victories, losses, and overall healing process.
In his art, personal stories blend with universal themes meant to resonate with viewers across different age groups. The self-portraits are not expressions of egocentrism but rather a form of psychological therapy that the artist found in them. Through the paintings, he heals and reflects on the given year, his thoughts, emotions, and life situations that shaped him, as he himself mentions: “It was never about ego or arrogance. Many people think I am self-centered, which is why I paint myself every year. The opposite is true. I’ve been an introvert since childhood and often lack confidence. Art has always given me a sense of being special and the strength to move forward; that’s why I continue painting... I would like this exhibition to show the viewer that the priority in life is to listen to yourself, take care of yourself, and love yourself. Not wishing to be someone else, but being content with who you are. Everyone is unique, precious, and fearless. After all, how can we love someone else if we cannot love ourselves? So, it’s all about self-love.” The amaryllis flower, which blooms, symbolizes personal growth and transformation, which the artist has undergone during his journey of self-awareness. The self-portrait represents a kind of ‘blooming’ of the personality, where the artist is able to reveal himself and immortalize his inner thoughts and feelings. The collection of self-portraits is thus a symbolic expression of a nine-year journey full of determination, dreams, persistence, and hard work. Throughout these years, as the paintings were created, it was a constant process of growth and endurance, demanding much energy and inner strength.
Each of his self-portraits symbolizes a life stage, behind which lies a personal story captured on canvas. This project is not only a journey of self-discovery for the artist but also an attempt to show those who are going through similar hardships that even the most difficult life challenges can be overcome. It demonstrates that no matter how life tests us, it emphasizes the inner strength and determination not to stop fighting for what is important. We invite you to dive into this captivating exhibition, which not only portrays the artist's life journey but also encourages deeper reflection on your own stories and emotions.
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