Oil on canvas, 70 x 90 cm; signed "W.v.Kalisz"
Wilhem von Kalisz is an artist who has become a true phenomenon on the contemporary art market in recent years. Although his name sounds classical, almost aristocratic, we are dealing with a thoroughly modern artist who boldly combines the techniques of the old masters with contemporary aesthetics. Von Kalisz does not copy the classics—he deconstructs them. His works are often a dialogue with Rubens, Rembrandt, or Caravaggio. The artist takes on Baroque dynamics,chiaroscuro, and monumental compositions, and then “breaks them down” with modern accents.
In a world dominated by conceptual art and installations, von Kalisz focuses on the physicality of painting. His canvases are heavy with paint and emotion.
Wilhelm von Kalisz perfectly understands the realities of the contemporary art world. His success rests on two pillars: undeniable technical mastery, which commands the respect of traditionalists, and emotionality: his paintings are "photogenic" and have a powerful emotional impact, making them a perfect fit for the trend of a return to figurative painting.
The phenomenon of Wilhelm von Kalisz is proof that classical beauty still has immense power, provided it is presented in a fresh, bold way that resonates with the sensibilities of the 21st-century viewer. He is an artist who proves that “old” painting can be the most exciting element of a modern collection.
The artist’s works have been recognized and appreciated by the prestigious Saatchi Gallery and have become part of their exclusive collection curated by chief curator Rebecca Wilson.
"My painting is not just a picture; it is a process of searching for identity in a world that has forgotten tradition but still longs for it." —this approach best captures the spirit of his work.
