Texts on Painting
Texts on painting and artistic practice.
I. Art Rewards — Study
November 10, 2024, Oslo, NorwayTibor Simon-Mazula
Tibor Simon-Mazula, a Hungarian artist, engages in his work through an intuitive approach. He derives comfort from the tactile and tangible aspects of painting. Simon-Mazula creates personal, dream-like representations of individuals and locations significant to him. His artistic expression is further shaped by his background in mathematics and cinematography. Additionally, his wife, friends, and travel companions serve as notable sources of inspiration for his artwork.
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Examining the Nexus of Identity and Artistic Expression
This exploration delves into the multifaceted relationship between identity and artistic practice, investigating how various art forms serve as avenues for individuals to convey their complex, layered identities. By employing a range of theoretical frameworks, including postcolonial, feminist, and queer theory, this study engages with the socio-political contexts that inform artistic production and interpretation. It analyzes how artists utilize media—be it visual arts, performance, or new media—to articulate personal and collective narratives, thereby challenging and redefining societal constructs of identity. This discourse not only reflects on the longstanding traditions of identity in art but also considers contemporary movements that reflect our evolving understanding of self in an increasingly globalized world.
According to Tibor Simon-Mazula, his artistic background is unique in that there are no other fine artists in his family. He highlights that his brother is a tattoo artist and muralist, and both of his parents exhibited a strong appreciation for art; in fact, his mother prioritized art purchases over material possessions such as automobiles. Her profession as a doctor involved working in a variety of settings, including the theatre, which contributed to a rich artistic environment during his formative years. This upbringing, coupled with his studies in cinematography, had a significant impact on the development of his expressive style.
Despite not attending art school during his childhood, he pursued private art lessons under the guidance of a well-traveled artist, who encouraged a spirit of adventure and exploration. Simon-Mazula has a deep connection to nature, rooted in his upbringing in an agricultural town with farming heritage. He initially pursued studies in horticultural engineering and garden design at a university in Budapest. However, he later concluded that engineering represented merely a duty, leading him to change his course of study to Fine Art and Mathematics in another city. During this time, he became actively involved in an art group and participated in exhibitions in Hungary and Serbia, reinforcing the importance of adhering to one's inner impulses.
He acknowledges the significance of his mathematical background, recognizing that abstraction, imagination, and analytical skills are essential components of mathematics, which facilitate creativity and serve as a basis for his artistic compositions. He also has a notable history in music, having performed as a drummer in underground rock bands for 16 years in Hungary. This experience involved extensive travel throughout Europe, performing in various venues in cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Prague, France, Romania, and Bosnia. These experiences were fundamental to his decision to relocate to San Francisco, where he sought to obtain a master's degree in painting and establish himself as a professional artist.
Finally, he reflects on the profound experiences of growing up in Eastern Europe during the 1990s, a period marked by significant political transformation. The rapid dissolution of an entire political system presented opportunities for the emergence of new ideas amid uncertainty. This period has shaped his perspective on authority, political power, and the art establishment, fostering a belief in the fundamental motivations that drive individuals and communities. In both his personal life and artistic endeavors, he strives to discover elements that embody constancy, positivity, and aesthetic beauty.
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The Influence of Historical Artists on Contemporary Practice
Tibor Simon-Mazula elaborates on several pivotal artistic experiences that have profoundly shaped his artistic evolution. He recounts his first encounter with the original paintings of Anselm Kiefer at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), an experience that left an indelible mark on his understanding of contemporary art. He also mentions the influential works of California-based artists, including Ann Gale, Jay DeFeo, Richard Diebenkorn, and Terry St. John, whose diverse styles and techniques contributed to his artistic perspective.
In addition, Tibor Simon-Mazula reflects on the significant impact of viewing the works of renowned artists such as Frank Auerbach and Leon Kossoff, whose expressive approaches to portraiture and landscape have provided valuable insights into the emotional depth of painting. His experiences with classic European masters, including Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Édouard Vuillard, and the late works of Claude Monet, during his travels in Europe further enriched his appreciation for the evolution of artistic styles and techniques over time.
Francisco Goya emerges as a particularly influential figure in Tibor Simon-Mazula's artistic framework, serving as a catalyst for his conceptual development rather than altering his technical practices. His admiration is not limited to these artists; he also expresses a keen interest in the artistic philosophies and methodologies of Franz Kline, whose abstract work offers a compelling exploration of form and balance.
Additionally, Tibor Simon-Mazula acknowledges the profound influence of his personal relationships with Hungarian painter Mihály Schéner and graphic artist Andras Karakas, both of whom have played vital roles in shaping his artistic viewpoint. He credits the contributions of Californian painter Carolyn Meyer, along with the insights gained from artist and writer Jenny E. Balisle and poet and painter Jack Hirschman, as instrumental in refining his own artistic narrative. Collectively, these experiences and relationships illustrate the complex interplay of influences that inform Simon-Mazula's artistic journey.
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The Impact of Various Painting Mediums on Artistic Expression
The choice of painting medium significantly shapes the nuances of artistic expression, influencing not only the techniques employed by the artist but also the conceptual depth of the work. Traditional mediums such as oil, acrylic, watercolor, and gouache each present unique properties that affect texture, color saturation, drying times, and layering potential.
Oil paints, with their slow drying time, allow for intricate blending and the development of rich, nuanced colors. This characteristic facilitates techniques like glazing and impasto, enabling artists to create depth and luminosity in their work. Conversely, acrylics offer a faster drying time, permitting rapid layering and reworking, which can foster a more spontaneous and modern approach to painting. The versatility of acrylics can lead to a wide range of finishes, from matte to glossy, depending on the mediums mixed with them.
Watercolors, known for their transparency and fluidity, challenge artists to embrace spontaneity and control over flow. The interaction of water and pigment can yield ethereal effects, which are often difficult to replicate in other mediums. Gouache, on the other hand, provides opacity and is characterized by its vibrant color quality, allowing for detailed work and bold applications.
Furthermore, mixed media practices combine these traditional materials to explore new dimensions of texture and visual language. Artists incorporating alternative pigments or substrates expand the boundaries of painting, pushing the medium toward new expressive possibilities.
In this complex interplay of mediums, the artist's choice becomes a pivotal element in conveying meaning and emotion, ultimately shaping the viewer's experience and interpretation of the artwork. Understanding these dynamics can deepen appreciation for the craftsmanship and conceptual intentions embedded within artistic practice.
Tibor Simon-Mazula has engaged in extensive experimentation with a wide array of artistic materials but ultimately decided to specialize in oil painting. Oil paint is often revered in the art world for its unique qualities, as it is frequently associated with the emotional intensity of fire and passion in visual expression. Simon-Mazula recognizes the distinctive characteristics of both oil and charcoal—these mediums not only provide a wide range of creative possibilities but also stimulate artistic exploration and innovation.
One of the compelling aspects of oil painting is its rich historical narrative, which spans centuries and includes influential movements and techniques. This historical dimension affords artists the opportunity to draw inspiration from past masters and styles, enriching their own practice.
Another significant advantage of oil paint is its organic nature; unlike synthetic alternatives, oil can integrate various natural materials, thus expanding the scope for experimentation. This integration allows for the creation of new optical effects—such as luminosity, depth, and texture—that can be meticulously controlled to produce consistent results in artworks.
In his practice, Tibor Simon-Mazula employs a variety of additives to modify the characteristics of oil paint. He combines substances like marble dust, cellulose, charcoal powder, bone ash, chalk, or alum with the oil paint to achieve specific effects that enhance the visual impact of his work. This innovative approach underscores the versatility of oil paint and its capacity to facilitate diverse artistic expressions. Overall, oil paint is recognized for its extensive range of possibilities, making it a valuable medium for artists seeking to explore complex concepts and techniques in their creations.
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Sources of Inspiration for Artists
According to Tibor Simon-Mazula, inspiration arises fundamentally from the real world that envelops us. He argues that reality is, contrary to popular belief, not a realm devoid of interest; in fact, it possesses layers and complexities that can be quite extraordinary. This remarkable nature of reality often presents difficulties when attempted to be captured on screen, canvas, or in written form. The nuances of real-life experiences can seem dreamlike or overly intense, which may lead audiences to question the authenticity or feasibility of these representations.
Tibor Simon-Mazula describes his perpetual state of inspiration, explaining that it can manifest in a variety of everyday scenarios. For example, while sitting in traffic on a tram headed to his studio, strolling through a city park with a companion, or merely relaxing on a balcony, he finds that small details often spark his creativity. The subtle irregularities in the pattern of a tree canopy, the gentle movement of a breeze, or the expansive qualities of the sky can provoke thoughts and emotions similar to those elicited by human interactions—stories, facial expressions, or gestures observed in both intimate settings and bustling urban environments.
Moreover, he emphasizes that this phenomenon is not unique to him; all individuals are subject to continuous influences from their surroundings, with meaningful thoughts perpetually occupying their minds. What sets him apart is his focused attention to capturing these fleeting moments and impressions, translating them through his unique experiences and acquired knowledge.
On another note, Tibor Simon-Mazula also draws significant inspiration from the artistic legacies of historical masters. His fascination with their works drives him to seek out opportunities to view these masterpieces in their original form, as he believes that direct engagement with the art heightens his understanding and appreciation. Art history plays a vital role in stimulating his imagination and intellectual curiosity, a subject that he has actively taught at the Hungarian University of Film and Theatre Arts, enriching the discourse around the transformative power of art.
In addition to these sources of inspiration, Tibor Simon-Mazula finds value in exploring the life stories of various artists and delving into poetry. Both literary forms serve as important catalysts for his creative process. Music, too, occupies a significant place in his artistic inspiration, providing an auditory backdrop that complements and enhances his artistic endeavors. Through these diverse influences, Simon-Mazula constantly enriches his perspective and artistic expression.
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The Role of Art in Social Change
The contemporary world is grappling with numerous crises that span social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Tibor Simon-Mazula notes that in Hungary, discussions concerning solutions to these crises frequently overlook the role of art. Instead, conversations tend to emphasize other avenues such as financial investments, political strategies, scientific innovations, the impact of religious beliefs, or philosophical frameworks.
This oversight raises questions about the perception of art within society. Art is often regarded as one of the most fundamental and influential human endeavors, capable of fostering community ties and bridging cultural or ideological divides. Filmmaker Andrei Tarkovsky characterized art as a meta-language—a form of communication that transcends words and allows individuals to connect with one another on a deeper level.
Moreover, there is a growing recognition of art's potential to address and rectify the issues prevalent in contemporary life. Artists, through their creative expressions, often share profound insights drawn from their own experiences. This process is typically driven by intrinsic motivation and a desire to convey truth rather than by external pressures or expectations. Consequently, artwork that is created with honesty is believed to possess the capacity to promote healing, not only for individuals but also for broader communities, offering a pathway toward understanding and reconciliation in a fractured world.
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Success Beyond Commercial Success
Tibor Simon-Mazula offers a distinctive perspective on the concept of success in the realm of artistry. He emphasizes that success for him is not measured solely by external accolades or recognition, but rather by his ability to persist in his artistic endeavors and to experience continuous personal and professional growth. Additionally, he highlights the significance of making a meaningful contribution to the lives of a diverse audience, particularly those who may be in need of support or inspiration. In his view, achieving this impact on people’s lives constitutes a profound accomplishment and underscores the value of his work as an artist.
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The Influence of Art on Emotional Intelligence
Artistic expression plays a crucial role in the formation and enhancement of emotional intelligence (EI). It facilitates the recognition, understanding, and management of emotions—both in oneself and in others. Engaging with various art forms, whether visual, auditory, or performative, allows individuals to explore complex emotional landscapes, fostering empathy and emotional regulation skills.
Research indicates that participation in creative activities can lead to heightened emotional awareness and improved interpersonal skills. For instance, analyzing characters in literature or interpreting the emotions conveyed in paintings prompts users to recognize nuanced feelings, enhancing their ability to navigate social interactions effectively.
Moreover, art provides a unique medium for emotional expression, offering individuals the tools to articulate feelings they may struggle to convey verbally. This creative outlet can serve as a therapeutic mechanism, aiding in emotional processing and resilience.
In conclusion, the synergy between art and emotional intelligence underscores the importance of incorporating artistic experiences into educational and therapeutic frameworks, ultimately enriching emotional literacy and interpersonal dynamics in diverse populations.
Tibor Simon-Mazula articulates a profound connection between his identity and his artistic creations. In numerous paintings, his wife, Diana, frequently assumes the role of his model, embodying a recurring theme in his work. Additionally, he draws inspiration from his immediate surroundings, which serve as a canvas for his creative expression.
The relationship between art and life is a central theme in his narrative, illustrating how they continuously interact and shape one another. As an artist recognized on an international scale, Tibor Simon-Mazula's experiences afford him the opportunity to engage with a rich tapestry of cultures, ideas, and societal norms. This exposure not only broadens his perspective but also leads to significant personal and artistic realizations.
Art plays a dual role for him; it is a source of solace during times of solitude, allowing for introspection and self-reflection. Simultaneously, it acts as a conduit for building connections with others and embarking on journeys of exploration and discovery. Through his work, Simon-Mazula navigates both the inner landscape of his thoughts and emotions, as well as the outer world, fostering a dialogue between the two.
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The Role of Continuous Learning in Art
Tibor Simon-Mazula elaborates on a significant shift in his artistic approach, noting his recent inclination toward identifying and analyzing various shapes, lines, and rhythms within his surroundings. Instead of dedicating time to frequent studies in a sketchbook, he focuses on memorizing compositions that capture his attention. Despite this new observational practice, he emphasizes the critical importance of painting on canvas, expressing a firm belief that he cannot endure more than a few days without engaging in this fundamental aspect of his artistry. He illustrates this by describing his habits during vacations; when he travels, he tends to feel an urgent need to visit local museums and galleries or to explore the streets of the city he is in, allowing him to immerse himself in the rich cultural experiences that fuel his creativity.
Furthermore, Tibor Simon-Mazula maintains a proactive commitment to fostering connections with fellow painters, establishing a community that supports his artistic journey. He regularly engages with a variety of educational resources, including podcasts that delve into the practices and philosophies of both contemporary and historical artists whom he admires. This engagement is complemented by a methodical approach to note-taking; he prefers to write by hand, which he finds enhances his cognitive retention and conceptual clarity.
In addition to structured note-taking, Tibor Simon-Mazula dedicates time to practicing the drawing of straight and curved lines in a dedicated notebook, reinforcing his fundamental artistic skills. When inspiration strikes, he produces abstract sketches that allow him to explore creative possibilities. He is particularly serious about understanding the properties of various art materials, investing considerable time in testing and experimenting with them to expand his artistic capabilities. Moreover, he utilizes digital tools to conduct a thorough analysis of visual imagery, concentrating specifically on the intricacies of color theory and composition. This comprehensive approach reflects his ongoing commitment to learning and refinement in his artistic practice.
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The Role of Performing Arts in Social Change
Tibor Simon-Mazula states that his artistic oeuvre is fundamentally concerned with the intricacies of human existence and the multifaceted relationships individuals share with one another and their surrounding environments. He emphasizes a profound interest in the human experience and is currently delving into the representation of a specific type of landscape that embodies these themes, particularly through the depiction of a garden. In this context, Tibor Simon-Mazula aims for his viewers not only to engage with the visual aspects of his work but also to derive a deeper understanding of their own personal relationships and connections. This encompasses the spectrum of human interactions, from intimate bonds to more distant affiliations, and extends to the connections individuals have with natural elements, such as trees that may be encountered on a daily commute or during leisure activities in a park.
Tibor Simon-Mazula draws a distinct line between his approach to art as painting rather than filmmaking. He articulates that his medium relies on the meticulous use of shapes, colors, and marks, all of which are intentionally composed on a two-dimensional physical surface. Citing Rudolf Arnheim's assertion that vision is an active process rather than a passive collection of data, Tibor Simon-Mazula positions his artistic practice as one that seeks to foster a genuine dialogue with the viewer. He employs a range of techniques designed to connect with the viewer’s perception, utilizing an intentionally limited yet varied palette that features deep blacks, such as spinel and mars black, alongside a selection of whites, including titanium and lead whites. This specific choice of colors serves to encourage viewers to personalize their interpretation of the imagery, allowing them to add their own emotional or conceptual hues to the experience.
Moreover, Tibor Simon-Mazula posits that within the vast expanse of the universe and the infinite spaces that human beings occupy, the significance of individual agency remains paramount within the context of community dynamics. He highlights the essential interplay of light and darkness in his work, acknowledging the existence of color as a fundamental element in human perception. The artist underscores that the diversity of greys, coupled with the strategic use of distinct black and white accents, plays a pivotal role in articulating themes of goodness, beauty, and truth. He articulates that the insights and capabilities necessary for cultivating a cohesive community are inherently sourced from both nature and the connections forged between individuals. Tibor Simon-Mazula concludes by emphasizing that no individual exists in true isolation, drawing a parallel between the relationships among colors— which only gain significance in relation to light and each other—and the interconnectedness of humanity.
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The Role of Networking in the Art World
According to Tibor Simon-Mazula, having extensive professional experience across three continents significantly enhances one's career development and artistic practice. This diverse global exposure allows individuals to cultivate a wide array of personal connections that can lead to collaborative opportunities and enrich their professional networks. Furthermore, such experiences provide valuable insights into various cultural contexts and artistic approaches, which can greatly inform one’s work.
Throughout this journey, Tibor Simon-Mazula has identified several key principles that are essential for success in the arts. These include the importance of being well-informed about industry trends, remaining open-minded to new ideas and perspectives, and exhibiting reliability and persistence when faced with obstacles. These qualities are critical for navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing global environment.
In addition, he emphasizes the significance of maintaining one’s artistic vision. Despite the vastness of the world and the myriad influences that may arise, staying true to one’s creative integrity is vital for long-term success and fulfillment in artistic endeavors.
Moreover, Tibor Simon-Mazula highlights that the most valuable professional relationships—whether with agents, galleries, or curators—are based on genuine human connections. These relationships transcend mere transactional agreements and are characterized by mutual respect and understanding, creating a foundation of trust that is essential for productive collaboration.
Finally, while participating in exhibitions at commercial galleries or museums, he underscores the importance of maintaining a robust online presence. The digital landscape is continuously evolving, and being attentive to one’s online image and engagement is critical for effectively reaching audiences and fostering professional relationships. This ongoing process of learning and adaptation is crucial for navigating the contemporary art world.
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The Joys and Struggles of Creative Expression
According to Tibor Simon-Mazula, he derives significant satisfaction from the extensive time he is able to invest in the creative process of producing art. He values the moments when he is approached by serious individuals or well-established organizations that acknowledge the potential and uniqueness of his artistic work. Such interactions not only affirm the dedication he pours into his craft but also serve as gateways to broader opportunities for recognition and exposure within the art community. When he has the chance to travel for exhibitions, openings, or business dealings related to his paintings, he views these experiences not merely as obligations but as enriching journeys that enhance his artistic narrative and allow him to connect with a diverse audience.
In his reflections on trends in the art world, Tibor Simon-Mazula offers a nuanced analysis, noting that while current trends can provide a window into the prevailing socio-cultural dynamics and artistic preferences of society, they often come and go with alarming rapidity. He emphasizes that trends frequently lack substantial influence over the deeper currents of artistic integrity and innovation. Instead, he posits that reliance on trends can lead to a homogenization of artistic expression, thereby undermining the rich diversity that is essential to the visual arts. He draws historical parallels, pointing out that during earlier art movements, celebrated figures like Monet received widespread acclaim, while equally talented contemporaries, such as Gauguin and van Gogh, were largely ignored by critics and the public. This discrepancy prompts a broader contemplation regarding the evolving landscape of the art world, suggesting that there are undoubtedly many gifted artists whose extraordinary contributions to art remain relatively unknown and unappreciated in the mainstream discourse.
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The Role of Artist Reputation in Pricing
According to Tibor Simon-Mazula, he has garnered extensive international recognition, achieving both professional and commercial success in the art world. His work has been featured in a variety of prestigious venues across the globe, including well-known galleries, renowned art fairs, and respected museums. Among these exhibitions are notable events such as Art Taipei in Taiwan, Miami Scope in the United States, and venues like the Florida State University Museum of Fine Arts and the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art. His work can also be seen in Hungary at the Munkácsy Mihály Museum and Damjanich János Museum.
Recently, his solo exhibition has attracted considerable attention in South Korea, resulting in over 40 articles published in significant media outlets. This coverage spans prominent business news publications, including ‘Asian Economy’, ‘Global Economic Seoul’, ‘Korean Economy’, ‘The Daily Korea’, ‘Beyond Post’, and ‘Open News Communications’, as well as influential art magazines like ‘Culture News Seoul’, ‘Lyric Poetry & Poetics’, ‘Seoul Culture Today’, and ‘Arts & Culture Magazine’.
Additionally, a new private museum in South Korea is set to open soon and has acquired four large works and several smaller pieces from him, further establishing his presence in the art market. He has also achieved success in various competitions in the United States, including the ‘Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series’ and the title of ‘Emerging Artists of the Bay Area’.
Furthermore, his paintings have been exhibited alongside works by distinguished contemporary artists from around the world, including figures such as Ben Eine, Plastic Jesus, Don Ed Hardy, Chen Long, and iconic artists Keith Haring and M.C. Escher. His recent showing at Art Taipei resulted in a sold-out event, signaling strong interest in his work.
His artistic output is characterized by a diverse range, with influences and exhibits spanning three continents while maintaining a coherent theme that continues to evolve and grow.
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Defining Success in the Art World
Tibor Simon-Mazula is dedicated to expanding his international presence as an artist with the intention of amplifying the message that human life possesses intrinsic meaning and significance. This broader visibility is seen as a crucial step in his efforts to engage a wider audience and express the importance of human experiences through his art.
To accomplish this goal, Tibor Simon-Mazula seeks opportunities to exhibit his work in prestigious museums and galleries around the world. Recognition through prestigious exhibitions or awards is a key aspect of this endeavor, as it not only validates his artistic vision but also helps to elevate the discourse surrounding the themes he explores in his work.
While external recognition is important, Tibor Simon-Mazula’s primary objective remains rooted in a deeper purpose: to create a lasting impact and foster meaningful change within society. He aspires to initiate a movement that resonates with individuals, supports community development, and inspires upcoming artists who may draw insights and motivation from his creative journey.
By facilitating this kind of change, Tibor Simon-Mazula hopes to reinvigorate the foundational aspects of human creativity, bringing attention to its essential nature and the connections that can be formed through artistic expressions.
At present, his efforts are concentrated on the upcoming exhibitions scheduled for 2025 in Seoul and Budapest, which are seen as significant milestones in his artistic career. These exhibitions represent pivotal opportunities to showcase his work and engage with diverse audiences, furthering his overarching goals of impact and meaningful dialogue through art.
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The Creative Mind
Balancing Artistic Passion and Daily ResponsibilitiesTibor Simon-Mazula emphasizes the importance of a hierarchical structure and a disciplined schedule in both his personal life and artistic practice. He acknowledges that, despite the significance he places on this routine, he often struggles to adhere to it consistently. His close friendships hold great value for him; however, due to the demands of his work, he frequently finds himself in the studio late into the evening, which in turn limits his opportunities for socializing.
In terms of priorities, he identifies two main focal points: his wife, Diana, and his commitment to painting. He regards these aspects as essential, giving them his full attention regardless of the time involved. Outside of these priorities, he doesn’t engage in many other hobbies. Nonetheless, he makes it a point to incorporate daily walks into his routine, often opting for serene locations such as parks or the countryside, where he can enjoy nature and an escape from his artistic endeavors.
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Tibor Simon-Mazula message for the other younger artists
"Discover your voice and remain true to it, no matter what happens! No one can dictate what you need to express or the path you should follow. You have your own journey. Once you reach your destination, take the time to learn, work hard, and pay attention to those who are walking alongside you. If possible, offer help to those who are struggling along the way. By doing this, good things will come to you."
II. Artist Notes
Short texts connected to specific works and moments of practice.
On Painting
This text is adapted from a video interview produced by Hann Art Agency in connection with exhibitions in Taiwan and later presented in Seoul. The recording reflects the artist’s spoken reflections on painting, material, and process.
Painting has many faces. I work with texture like a little kid — it’s an engaging, free play. The surface in some areas is even, while elsewhere it remains undeveloped. Different areas respond to each other. They speak among themselves and also communicate with the viewer.
Our world is full of antagonisms, and in my view art has the ability to unite and dissolve them at the same time. This is what I try to capture in my work. In my paintings, smooth and rough surfaces, beauty and ugliness can exist together. They complement each other. Silence and sound, nothing and something. Opposing poles merge and find harmony in art.
I don’t see dealing with beauty and harmony as the sole purpose of art, even though both are essential in my practice. I rather see our imperfect planet — which we have to live on with all its beauties and tragedies — as a faulty place, where one of the roles of art is to correct the mistakes of a non-ideal world. Art has the power to help, because this idea of art can be applied to everyone, not only artists.
For me, this is one of the meanings of art. But there are many others. Just one more example: I believe another important aspect is that art helps us understand the richness of the world — the multiplicity of ideas manifesting in an almost incomprehensibly complex multitude of phenomena. Through art, I can respond to this plurality, and the viewer can respond as well. This is not a scientific approach; it is an artistic conversation, which I consider a crucial way of seeing things.
I had been searching for a long time. I was a musician, I made short films. But painting was always there, and that is where I found my voice. There are many things about painting that make me feel this is my path. I am fascinated by colors and shapes. Although I often apply grays in many areas of my paintings, I don’t consider gray neutral — there is a lot of color within it. I am captivated by color, and I am particularly drawn to blue.
Among the reasons why I became a painter, I would also mention my desire to search for harmony, or to depict chaos. On the one hand, this is why painting makes sense to me, but I also paint for other reasons. One of them is the way I paint. There is direct contact between the surface, the material, and myself. The canvas and the brush are like instruments. Sometimes I paint with my finger or with my hand. Sometimes I turn the canvas around or place it on the ground; other times I simply shake it. Painting has this elemental, almost primitive character that I deeply admire.
Ultimately, painting is a spontaneous, improvisational performance that freezes and solidifies, leaving the viewer with its result. It has peaks and quieter moments. At times it is focused, intense work that can be unsettling; at other times it is calming. The beauty of this duality is that you can never predict which phase will come next, or when.
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, September 15, 2023
Text from a video produced by Hann Art Agency for Art Taipei 2023.
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“I think we live in a world where it’s important to emphasize silence, to highlight silence. I think silence is normal — not constant noise. The result of cacophony is that you can’t hear anything, because one thing cancels out the other. And what I want to show is that even if this is the case — and I’m not judging it — it’s not normal.
It is silence that is normal.
Poems are not words thrown on top of each other; they are pauses, syllables, rhythms. In the same way, in a painting there are reassurances, there are highlights. So silence is very important. I rebel against noise. I don’t want to rattle and flap around and draw attention to myself loudly. I want to rebel against the noise that is all around us, that prevents us from hearing clearly, or seeing the other.
I don’t think silence is important because there is no sound, or because nothing happens, but because silence is as much a part of sound as sound itself.
I do not wish to drown the viewer in stimuli with my images. I want to give them a little strength, a little reassurance, a little nourishment. I don’t want to shock them. So for me, it is essential that I stand for silence.”
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, 2025
Text from the video produced for Seoul Art Now Gallery -
On Painting: If I Can Only Remember (2023)
“This painting has a pair among my paintings, but this one is a more dynamic and active image. It's about memory, movement and the significance of a moment.
The title of this body of work is about rebirth and awakening; both concepts are related to change. I've found that the important things in life, the big turns, the meaningful events, happen in the blink of an eye, within a very short period of time and are not the result of something planned.
It happens in a trice, which I don't think we realize at that particular moment. We probably don't recognize it because our life is a series of moments, in which there are not that many turning points, just a few, and we never realize at which exact moment these big turns actually happen. We only understand what happened to us when we look back, when we remember it. And there is an enormous contradiction here, because when we dig into the past and understand it, we already can't change it.
And for me, that's how this painting is connected to rebirth, to change. It captures a moment and a memory. The figure is in motion, the background is blurred, the corresponding warm and cold colors harmonize and float the figure that is moving. She doesn't walk, she doesn't sit, she doesn't stand up, she just turns around.
I may have succeeded in depicting this in the movement of her feet, the movement of her hands, the movement of her head. These show that the character is in an intermediate state. That's why you can't really read her face. That's why the gestures were very important for me, and so was the space. Here the space is unclear and the figure is somewhat blurred, but certain parts of it are sharp.
I used charcoal here as well, and oil paint. The use of materials in this picture is perhaps the most subtle and sophisticated. I was aiming for nice transitions. I sometimes break up these transitions with strong brushstrokes, ivory black, mars black, or charcoal.
These brushstrokes come to me almost instinctively. At the same time, this painting, like the others, has been designed, planned and thought-out in advance. And yet, the process of creation, the expressive experience of painting, always drove my work forward.”
Full transcript of the video accompanying the solo exhibition Still Moments, Tainan City, 2023.
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On Painting: I’ll wait and see (2023)
“At the center of this painting sits a static, almost rigid figure. The position of the body is crucial. This is true for all my works, but here the geometric structure of the image is perhaps more clearly traceable. Geometry provides the skeleton of the painting — the underlying structure — yet I did not want this precision to dominate the subtlety of the moment. As the painting progressed, these elements were gradually concealed. They disappeared from view, but like a skeleton, they remain present beneath the surface.
The position of the figure is not the only essential element; the background is equally important. While the figure appears solid and still, the surrounding space begins to blur and dissolve, melting away behind the character.
I try to amplify the mood of this captured moment through subtle transitions and a range of blues. Alongside this restraint, I use strong — sometimes rough — gestures and materials. Charcoal is left within the paint, preserving the expressive momentum of the process. These moments are not predictable. Order and regularity coexist with unforeseen events.
It is difficult to articulate what the figure is doing, or what exactly is happening. That is why I make paintings. I want to leave space for the viewer’s imagination. Images can be explained, but I believe they are better felt. I resist overriding what the eyes perceive with words or over-explaining the image.
Perhaps I can add that I intended to reference earlier periods of painting. This is why the red drapery appears — carefully laid, inactive, at rest. It functions as a prop rather than a central theme. Its role is defined by colour: it stands out while also integrating the composition.
I spent a great deal of time on the face — it is the most elaborated element here. This presented a challenge, because for me painting is ultimately about colour, shape, gesture, and brushwork. I do not want facial expression to dominate or become too literal. I want the visual language of the image to remain open.”
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, 2023
Full transcript of the video produced by Hann Art Agency for Tibor Simon-Mazula’s solo exhibition Still Moments | Rising, Tainan City, Taiwan (November–December 2023).
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On Painting: We Were There (2023)
“This is a slightly offbeat painting. It belongs to the series, it fits, yet it is also somewhat out of place. It is primarily a still life about colour, and it has a brief background story.
The painting was made after we returned from Paris, where I was deeply impressed by the artworks I encountered. I believe that the paintings of Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard influenced this work on a subconscious level. This was not a conscious decision. Rather, the way the colours burst forward, and the way forms are broken down and simplified, feels like an after-effect of Paris itself.
My intention was to create a simple still life that is not entirely conventional in terms of scale and setting. The table is the central subject, yet it carries very little: only a few apples and a glass. I deliberately avoided overloading the surface with objects. What matters here is the swirl — the cavalcade — of colours that seem to emerge unexpectedly, yet still feel real. For me, this was essential.
This image fits naturally into the arise, or rebirth sequence, as it celebrates light. It could be a spring morning, a moment at daybreak, when something begins and the day unfolds. It welcomes the season. That was the mood I wanted to convey. Interestingly, the juxtaposition of Vuillard’s and Bonnard’s visual languages entered the painting unconsciously.
I love this painting. It puts me in a good mood.”
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, 2023
Full transcript of the video produced by Hann Art Agency for Tibor Simon-Mazula’s solo exhibition Still Moments | Rising, Tainan City, Taiwan (November–December 2023).
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On Painting: Where Did She Go, (2023)
“The central element of this image is absence. There are many things that can be said about this painting, and it can carry multiple meanings, but one of its key aspects is scarcity.
It is quite clear that there is no figure present. At the same time, objects associated with a person are there, so in a way the character is present, even though she—or he—is not depicted or articulated in the image. This is the first layer of meaning. Another important layer is related to colour.
I am deeply attracted to the colour blue. In most of my paintings, blue is dominant; it structures the image. Here, however, this is not the case. Strong yellows, oranges, and reds come forward, almost into the foreground. I would even say that they push forward aggressively. This is one of the reasons why I struggled with this painting for a long time, until I reached a point where the image began to paint itself.
That moment came when I realized that I had to define orange, yellow, and red as the opposites of blue — as complementary forces. From that point on, the painting resolved itself, and I was able to move forward.
This strong tension between ‘there is’ and ‘there is not,’ between cold and warm, drives the image. As you can see, the curtain is moved by the wind; there is a subtle motion that connects the inner space with the outer space. The outer space is cold, the inner space warm. The breeze permeates the room — it passes through the space from which the figure is missing. Yet the person is not truly absent, because the traces, the props, the objects of a human presence remain.”
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, 2023
Full transcript of the video produced by Hann Art Agency for Tibor Simon-Mazula’s solo exhibition Still Moments | Rising, Tainan City, Taiwan (November–December 2023).
III. Artist’s Reflection
Notes reflecting on a period of work.
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Artist’s Reflection (2023)
Over the past decade, my work has centered on four recurring themes—engagement, awakening, remembering, and beauty. These paintings emerge from intimate experiences: people close to me, spaces I inhabited, and situations that shaped my understanding of human connection. I continue to look beneath the visible, toward motivations and relationships that surface only through the act of painting.
As Jenny E. Balisle (San Francisco–based curator, writer, and professor) observed in 2019:
“…artworks highlight internal hope and conflict. The physicality of the painting process offers refuge while exposing the scars of experience. Bone ash literally engulfs the compositions of everyday fragments. Ancestors spoke this language, and today the translation evolves.”— Tibor Simon-Mazula, 09.15.2023
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“During the painting process I trust in my actual instincts. Working intuitively is a refuge, which not only shields from the external world, but creates connection. I calm down, when the brush caresses the canvas, but when the paint splashes, the palette knife scratches, I break through the grip of the world with the lively expressive action of painting. On the canvas, sometimes thick oil paint is mixed with bone ash or marble dust curls so that is cracks like the dry earth, but some areas are left empty as if a storm had swept through the image.”
— Tibor Simon-Mazula, San Francisco, 2015
