Subterranean-1 is the first in a series of paintings inspired, not so much by the lives or the actual works of the beat writers; Jack Kerouac, Allan Ginsburg, William Burroughs et al, but by the spirit of their lives and works.
Subterranean-2 uses an abstract crucifix to illustrate a fascination the beats had with judeo-christian ethic as historical fact and then examining it's validity in a changing world, even looking east for spiritual direction.
I have for the most part been self educated, with the exception of doing a visual arts diploma from Centennial College, and 2 years in the Fine Arts program at York University. In a slightly different discipline I have an Architectural Technologist Certificate, from Ryerson Polytechnical University.
As far as being a serious Artist, I don't remember not painting with
the knowledge that this was my life, and would continue to pursue a creative
path over and above any other distraction to come my way.
My explorations as an Artist have lead me to determine that style is a trap
of limitations. Taking a look through this catalogue will prove if nothing
else that the path of human life does not have to be limited by external
expectations but can be as self determined, and varied as any individual
wants it to be, and still maintain, focus and purpose.
Every inspiration I have had has allowed me a look at my creative path
differently, and I have interpreted it in the visual language that has given
that language clarity.
Artistic movements that have had an impact on my life include; The Bauhaus,
Constructivism, Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, & the Automatistes.
EXHIBITS
Gallery No, 1981, Toronto
Danes Design Studio, 1982, Toronto
North York Arts Council, 1985
Kawartha Arts Fair, 1989 Fenelon Falls Ont.
Toronto Indoor Art Exhibit, 1992, Toronto
Kensington Restaurant, 1993, Toronto
There's Art In My Garden 1, 1994, Toronto
There's Art In My Garden 2, 1998, Toronto
To contact Kurt Rostek e-mail to:lokart@sympatico.ca
Visit Kurt's home site @ www.kurtscanadianart.com/