Renata Kudlacek – Commission – Cloud One Hotel Prague
1. Artist Background
Renata Kudlacek was born in Zábřeh, Czech Republic. Her father was Czech and worked as a photographer, her mother was German. German and Czech were always spoken in the Catholic home with intergenerational roots in the Czech Republic. The artist's older sister fled to the West as a young woman; Renata Kudlacek and her parents followed her when Czechs of German origin and their spouses were allowed to leave what was then Czechoslovakia.
In the late 1990s, Renata moved to London, Great Britain, and completed her master's degree in Fine Art at the Royal College of Art in 2003.
In her master's thesis entitled A Work of Memory, Renata Kudlacek dealt with the question of the meaning of memory and how it is a result of imaginative processes. Something that influences her artwork today.
“There is also this constant struggle,” Kudlacek says, ‘“between ethics and science – belief and facts – old standards and the new unknown. Where we stand on life’s essential moral questions requires constant revision in the baffling speed of an ever-changing world.”
In her artwork, the artist combines her own photographs and drawings, made to simulate old engravings or paintings of flora and fauna, with original drawings.
During her studies, she also worked as a curator - an activity she continued alongside her artistic work for fifteen years. First in London, and since 2017, as co-director of the Berlin BBA Gallery. She says, "Curatorial work broadens my horizons and provides valuable new impulses for my own artistic work."
Renata’s work has been exhibited widely across Europe whilst actively working for various art and education initiatives including project management and curation.
Background Themes of the Artwork
Identity and self-reflection: Kudlacek often explores questions of identity and self-reflection by engaging with themes such as self-discovery, self-portraiture, and self-acceptance. Her Czech roots play an important role in her artwork
Nature and environment: Nature is a recurring motif in Kudlacek's art. She explores the relationship between humans and nature as well as the beauty and vulnerability of the natural world.
Transformation and change: Kudlacek is interested in the idea of transformation and change, both on a personal and social level. Her works address themes such as growth, change, and renewal.
Dream and fantasy: Her art may also be inspired by dreams, fantasies, and the world of imagination. She enjoys playing with surreal elements and often creates magical, dream-like scenes.
Social and political issues: Kudlacek's art also reflects social and political issues by addressing questions of justice, inequality, and social change.
Cultural and historical identity: As an artist, Kudlacek incorporates the cultural and historical identity of her homeland and the journey in her life into her works.
Art History: Renata’s work is also inspired and influenced by art history like the Colour palates of Baroque time, forms and objects from the Renaissance to the Art Nouveau
2. Artist Process
Renata Kudlacek uses collages as one of her artistic techniques to explore complex themes and emotions in her works. Her approach to collages is diverse, depending on the theme but has some classical elements
The starting point for her artwork is a collection of hundreds of texts, photos, books, and sketches that she created and collected over many years, including an almost incalculable abundance of flower images in the form of her own photographs, family photos, drawings and paintings. They build the base material that Renata Kudlacek processes in her artwork and combines with new elements depending on the artwork.
The use of collages as a medium to express her artistic vision and explore complex themes and emotions in a visually creative way is very important. The work is rich in symbolism, textures, and visual interest, inviting the viewer to engage with the layered stories and ideas in her works
Layering:
Renata layers these materials on top of each other to create visual texture and depth. The different surfaces and patterns of the materials give the collages a lively and dynamic quality. Those layers are scanned and processed further on the computer and, depending on the theme, assembled into an artwork. Once the work is completed, she uses different printing processes like screenprinting, etching, or fine art digital prints. - using the mixed media technique.
Craft techniques:
In addition to cutting and pasting materials, Kudlacek uses craft techniques such as drawing, painting, and print techniques to complete and refine her collages.
3. Printing process
Screenprinting
Screenprinting, also known as silk screening, is a versatile and widely used printing technique that involves transferring ink through a mesh screen onto a substrate, such as paper, fabric, metal, or plastic. It's a popular method for producing high-quality prints. Renata works with the complex CMYK – colour separation principle.
The process begins with the creation of the artwork to be printed.
1. The artwork is then separated into individual color layers, each of which will require a separate screen.
2. To prepare the screen, a light-sensitive emulsion is applied evenly to the mesh. Once dried, the emulsion-coated screen is placed in a darkroom under UV light along with the film positive containing the separated artwork for that color layer. The areas of the emulsion exposed to light harden, while those covered by the artwork remain soft.
3. After exposure, the screen is washed with water, causing the unexposed emulsion to dissolve, leaving behind a stencil of the artwork on the screen. This process is known as developing or washing out the screen.
4. The prepared screens are then mounted onto a printing press, with each screen aligned precisely to ensure proper registration of the colors.
5. Ink is applied to the top of the screen corresponding to the first color layer. A squeegee is then used to spread the ink evenly across the screen, pushing it through the mesh and transferring it onto the substrate in the areas where the stencil allows ink to pass through. The process is repeated for each color layer, with the substrate passing under each screen in sequence. Multiple passes may be required to achieve the desired opacity and color saturation.
Etching Process
Photoetching, also known as photogravure or photolithography, is a printmaking technique that involves using light-sensitive chemicals to transfer an image onto a metal plate. It is commonly used in the production of high-quality prints for artistic
1. Photoetching begins with a metal plate which is then coated with a light-sensitive emulsion.
2. The prepared artwork on a film positive is placed on top of the coated metal plate and exposed to UV light. The areas of the plate covered by the opaque parts of the film positive remain protected from light, while the areas exposed to light become hardened or insoluble.
3. After exposure, the plate is washed with a developer solution, which removes the unexposed areas of the light-sensitive material, leaving behind a latent image on the plate. The hardened areas of the plate act as a resist, protecting the underlying metal from etching. The plate is then submerged in an etching solution, which selectively eats away at the exposed metal areas not protected by the resist. The etching process can be controlled to achieve varying depths and textures, depending on the desired effect.
4. Once the desired depth of etching is achieved, the plate is removed from the etching solution, cleaned, and dried thoroughly.
5. The etched plate is inked by applying ink across its surface and then wiping it away, leaving ink only in the recessed areas created by the etching process. The plate is then pressed onto a dampened piece of paper using a printing press, transferring the inked image onto the paper.
Photoetching allows for highly detailed and precise images to be reproduced with remarkable fidelity. This process is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment and materials, the results can be stunning and long-lasting.
Multi-Media Print Technique – Digital Fine Art Print
The artwork combines different techniques. It is the final step.
A multimedia mixing technique between screenprint, etching, and digital print combines traditional printmaking methods with modern digital technology to create unique and innovative artworks. After the traditional printing processes, digital printing is introduced to add additional layers or elements to the artwork. This could involve scanning the printed images and manipulating them digitally using graphic design software. The artist may choose to overlay digital graphics, textures, or patterns onto the printed surface to enhance or alter the composition.
Layering and Mixing: The final step involves layering the printed elements together to create a cohesive and visually dynamic composition. The screen-printed and etched elements serve as the foundation, while the digital prints add depth, texture, and complexity to the artwork. The artist can experiment with different combinations and arrangements to achieve the desired effect.
By combining screenprint etching, traditional printmaking, and digital printing techniques, artists can create multimedia artworks that blend the tactile qualities of traditional printmaking with the versatility and precision of digital technology. This approach allows for endless possibilities in terms of experimentation, composition, and visual storytelling.
The final version was developed into a large lightbox installation for the reception and printed on Hahlemühlen paper for the hotel rooms.
4. Title of the Work ‘My Bohemia’
Renata Kudlacek: "My Bohemia" is the title of the artwork, encapsulating the essence of the commission, the city of Prague, and my personal narrative. It delves into the rich cultural tapestry of Bohemia, drawing inspiration from my personal history with the city and country – my place of birth, as well as other countries' history, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere in Prague. Through my art, I aim to explore the deep connection I have with Prague, weaving together elements of nostalgia, heritage, and identity. Additionally, "My Bohemia'' serves as a homage to my roots and a celebration of the beauty and complexity of this enchanting city.
Bohemia, a historical region in the heart of Europe, has long been intertwined with the world of art and creativity. It has a rich Cultural Heritage: shaped by centuries of artistic expression and innovation. The region's diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and storied history have inspired artists from various disciplines. Bohemia has been a breeding ground for artistic movements and avant-garde ideas. From the Bohemian Renaissance of the 14th century to the Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bohemia has been a hub of creativity and experimentation. The city of Prague, the capital of Bohemia, has played a central role in shaping the region's artistic identity. The term "Bohemian" has come to be associated with a free-spirited, unconventional lifestyle often embraced by artists and creatives.
5. Themes – for Prague Commission
Round Objects named Tondo / Astronomical Clock ‘Orloj’
The word tondo comes from the Italian rotondo and means round. The Renaissance used this term for circular images. In the same way, however, a desco da parto, a so-called birth plate, where wooden plates developed into a memento mori symbol. However, they were also often painted and in the late Middle Ages became a symbolic gift for a successful birth. A tondo thus symbolizes birth and death, new beginnings and endings, at the same time. Its round shape can be found in modern times when looking into a microscope or a petri dish.
The Astronomical Clock in Prague, known as the Prague Orloj, is one of the most famous and beloved landmarks in the Czech Republic. It is situated on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall in the Old Town Square of Prague and is a masterpiece of medieval engineering and craftsmanship. The clock is not only a timekeeping device but also an astronomical instrument and a work of art, with rich symbolism and cultural significance for the Czech people. It represents their rich history, scientific achievements, and artistic heritage, which is a testament to the enduring spirit of Czech craftsmanship and ingenuity.
The astronomical dial is the central feature of the clock face. It displays various astronomical phenomena, including the position of the sun and moon in the sky, the phases of the moon, and the time of sunrise and sunset. The dial also includes a rotating outer ring with signs of the zodiac and a stationary inner ring with medieval Czech times.
Charles Bridge
The Charles Bridge holds deep significance for the citizens of Prague as a symbol of their city's cultural heritage, resilience, and identity. For Prague citizens, the bridge represents a link to their past, a testament to their enduring pride in their city, and a cherished symbol of community and tradition. It serves as a vital pedestrian thoroughfare, connecting neighborhoods and fostering a sense of unity among residents. Additionally, the Charles Bridge is a source of inspiration for artists, musicians, and performers who contribute to the vibrant atmosphere that makes Prague such a unique and vibrant place to live. Overall, the bridge holds a special place in the hearts of Prague citizens, embodying the spirit and soul of their beloved city.
Renata Kudlacek; The bridge has had a very personal significance to me and our family. After my sister fled and resettled in Germany, she was unable to return to visit her family. To introduce her future husband to her parents, he traveled alone to Prague while my sister waited in a hotel at the Czech-German border. The designated meeting point for the future husband and parents-in-law was the Charles Bridge in Prague. Since they were unfamiliar with each other, the arrangement was for him to hold a ring and a flower so they could recognize each other. It was only many years later that we were able to reunite with my sister in Germany. For many years her husband was the connection between us in the East and my sister in the West.
Statues on the bridge
There are 30, predominantly Baroque, statues and groups of statues on Charles Bridge. Most of them were created at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries.
The Statue of Ivo of Kermartin, Charles Bridge is a reference between faith and science, as well as the meeting point for the artist's family.
The statue depicts St. Ivo of Kermartin, also known as Yves of Brittany, who was a 14th-century lawyer and the patron saint of lawyers, notaries, and judges. He is venerated by the Catholic Church and has been canonized as a saint. He was known for his compassion and dedication to the poor. He is also known as the “Advocate of the Poor.”
The Prague Castle is a symbol of national identity and pride for the citizens of Prague and the Czech Republic. As one of the largest and oldest castles in the world, it represents centuries of political, cultural, and architectural history. The castle complex, with its diverse array of architectural styles and historical landmarks, embodies the country's rich heritage and serves as a focal point for civic and cultural life in Prague. Overall, the Prague Castle holds deep meaning as a symbol of national identity, historical continuity, and cultural pride for the Czech people.
Ever appearing motifs: Butterfly / Tulip
The butterfly is a powerful and widely recognized symbol in many cultures around the world, often associated with transformation, rebirth, and the soul's journey. The key mythical symbols of the butterfly are transformation and metamorphosis. Perhaps the most prominent symbol associated with the butterfly is transformation. The butterfly undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis from a caterpillar to a beautiful winged creature, making it a potent symbol of personal growth, change, and evolution. In many myths and legends, the butterfly represents the journey of the soul, moving through different stages of existence and ultimately transcending into a higher state of being. It represents the idea that out of endings come new beginnings and that change can lead to beautiful and transformative outcomes. Overall, the butterfly is a powerful symbol that resonates deeply with the human experience, representing themes of transformation, rebirth, spiritual evolution, and the eternal cycle of life. Its beauty and symbolism have captivated cultures around the world for centuries, making it a timeless and universal symbol of profound significance.
Butterflies, fungi, and flowers floating in the black background.
Here the exotic Tulip repeats itself in obsessive bouquets, rendered in a Northern European late Baroque style. Again, it links a historical moment with a contemporary one. The notorious Tulipmania of 17th century Holland was one of the earliest markets ‘speculations,’ in which the desire for rare tulips pushed their market value to more than the worth of a house and led to bankruptcy and financial collapse. This tale of boom-and-bust capitalism can be compared with our own time of consumerist excess in the pursuit of wealth, beauty, and youth. It is also a reference to the Velvet Revolution in 1989 which marked the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia. The transition was a complex and multifaceted process, economical and social. With it also came a tremendous social change for the people. Freedom of movement, exploring the world joining the EU, free speech, and democracy. (Also the reference to the butterfly).
In Turkish culture, tulips used to be considered a symbol of paradise on earth and almost had a divine status, while in the Netherlands they symbolized the brevity of life. Flowing and changing processes can be aptly reflected in the tulip because unlike other flowers, such as the coneflower or the lotus, tulips can genetically reinvent themselves again and again to change their aesthetics to quasi-feathered and mottled petals.
Still Life
The genre term ‘still life’ encompasses the painterly depiction of motionless objects such as flowers, fruits, dead animals, glasses, or instruments. These objects are arranged not only according to aesthetic, but often according to content-related and symbolic aspects. The genre developed mainly in the 17th century and is also known under the French name, nature morte. Renata Kudlacek is inspired by the tension between the realistic representation and the deeply symbolic content of typical still-life objects, as well as by the tension between life and death, movement and stillness. Mushrooms, onions, snails, turtles, and butterflies interact; this is not in a traditional way which is static, or "posed", but energetically where still life elements float and flow. The elements of flow, movement, and entanglement are also repeatedly used. The floating fragments and creatures are of this world, complex and sensual. It is mixed in a rich, Baroque color palette and art nouveau graphic elements.
Inspiration
ART Nouveau
Art Nouveau, with its ornamental style of art, is characterized by its use of a long, sinuous, and organic line. It was most often employed in architecture, interior design, jewelry and glass design, posters, and illustration.
A popular artistic movement that flourished in Europe and North America from the late 19th to the early 20th century, Art Nouveau left a significant impact on the architecture, design, and decorative arts of Prague. The city's rich architectural heritage provided an ideal canvas for this style, which emphasized organic forms, flowing lines, and decorative motifs inspired by nature.
In Prague, Art Nouveau manifested itself in various forms, including architecture, interior design, decorative arts, and graphic design.
The most notable example of Art Nouveau architecture in Prague is the Municipal House (Obecní dům). Built between 1905 and 1912, the Municipal House is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture in Prague. Designed by architects Antonín Balšánek and Osvald Polívka, the building features elaborate decorative elements, including stained glass windows, mosaics, and sculptures, which showcase the characteristic Art Nouveau style.
Alfons Mucha was a renowned Czech Art Nouveau artist, closely associated with Prague due to his significant contributions to the city's cultural heritage. Born in 1860 in Ivancice, Moravia (which is now part of the Czech Republic), Mucha moved to Vienna and later Paris to pursue his artistic career. Mucha maintained a strong connection to his homeland. In the early 20th century, he returned to Prague, where he embarked on a series of projects that left a lasting mark on the city. Mucha's art can be found throughout Prague in various forms, from decorative panels and stained glass windows to posters and murals. His distinctive Art Nouveau style and commitment to celebrating Slavic culture have made him a beloved figure in both the Czech Republic and international art history.
Flowers
In Czech culture, the choice of flowers and their significance is deeply rooted in tradition and serves as a meaningful way to communicate emotions, celebrate special moments, and honor cherished relationships. It had also a strong meaning for the artist herself.
Chrysanthemums for example are often associated with mourning and remembrance in Czech culture, making them appropriate for funerals and paying respects to the deceased. Their presence conveys sympathy and support for those grieving
Melancholy, Nostalgia and Metamorphoses
Melancholy, loss, nostalgia, and desire are part of the work. Reflected in fragmented forms, and the rupture of a coherent pictorial space.
Some flowers allude to the enormous mutability, which in Christianity, symbolizes faith and love. With the Metamorphoses, Renata Kudlacek also ties in with the content of her master's thesis A work of memory: our imagination is capable of change. It leads to a change and fusion of images. Without imagination, there are no imaginative processes - and these are subject to a perpetual metamorphosis because imagination is never static.
Further Inspiration:
Franz Kafka, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, had a complex relationship with his hometown of Prague, which significantly influenced his literary works, including his famous novella "The Metamorphosis" ("Die Verwandlung" in German). Kafka was born in Prague in 1883 to a middle-class Jewish family and spent the majority of his life in the city. Prague's unique cultural and architectural landscape, with its blend of German and Czech influences, deeply impacted Kafka's imagination and provided the backdrop for many of his stories."The Metamorphosis," published in 1915, is perhaps Kafka's most famous work. Additionally, the theme of transformation in the novella can be interpreted as a metaphor for Kafka's own internal struggles and the disconnect between his inner self and external reality. Despite his ambivalent feelings towards Prague, Kafka remained deeply connected to the city throughout his life, drawing inspiration from its streets, people, and atmosphere. Today, Kafka's legacy looms large in Prague, with various landmarks and museums dedicated to his life and work, ensuring that his profound influence on literature and culture will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Writing a personal note:
Working on this Prague commission has been incredibly meaningful on a personal level. It has allowed me to reconnect with my birthplace and heritage, and also reignited my love for Prague. On an artistic level, this project has been a significant challenge, providing me the opportunity to grow and develop as an artist. I have learned a great deal throughout the process and feel a tremendous sense of achievement. I am grateful to the Cloud One team for selecting me as the artist for this unique project and for appreciating my artwork. A big thank you goes to the Cloud One Team and the BBA Gallery Team for all the support. I thoroughly enjoyed making the art. It has been an unforgettable project which I sense will open new doors for my work.
-Renata Kudlacek