Přemysl Martinec's 'Thought Journal' at Outsider Art Fair
At the Outsider Art Fair in Paris, the editorial team of artpress discovered a 'thought journal' by Czech outsider artist Přemysl Martinec, fictively purchased by Laurent Perez. Martinec, born in 1957, has been creating a journal of his thoughts and states since the 1990s, initially for his caregivers, using ballpoint pen comic strips. His compositions are not systematic, though he always starts at the top left. The sequential layout suggests a narrative, with two dots identifying characters' faces reminiscent of Nicolas de Crécy's style. Scenes often include a reclining human form, reflecting Martinec's years working in a hospital, particularly in the morgue. The scenes appear to grow more complex, as if developing a discourse across the page. However, Martinec offers no explanation of his works, only stating that he appreciates others liking them and that they make him happy. Martinec has collaborated with renowned filmmaker Jan Švankmajer, both being members of the Czech surrealist group. Galerie Arthur Borgnis, exhibiting at Outsider Art Fair for the first time, presents his works on its stand, selling these sheets for 800 euros each.
Key facts
- Přemysl Martinec is a Czech outsider artist born in 1957.
- He has been creating a 'thought journal' since the 1990s, initially for his caregivers.
- The journal consists of ballpoint pen comic strips.
- Martinec's compositions are not systematic but always start at the top left.
- His drawings often feature a reclining human form, reflecting his hospital work, especially in the morgue.
- Martinec collaborated with filmmaker Jan Švankmajer, both members of the Czech surrealist group.
- Galerie Arthur Borgnis exhibited Martinec's works at Outsider Art Fair for the first time.
- The sheets are sold for 800 euros each.
- The discovery was made by artpress editorial team, fictively purchased by Laurent Perez.
- The event took place at Atelier Richelieu, Paris, from October 17-20, 2019.
Entities
Artists
- Přemysl Martinec
- Nicolas de Crécy
- Jan Švankmajer
- Laurent Perez
Institutions
- artpress
- Galerie Arthur Borgnis
- Outsider Art Fair
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Atelier Richelieu
Sources
- artpress —