Bartosz Kokosiński - The Third Dimension of Canvas

Bartosz Kokosiński is a painter, or perhaps better described as a visual artist, specializing in painting. From the beginning of his career, the author has worked in cycles, creating works full of authenticity that document his experiences, emotions, and the search for his own artistic language. In Kokosiński's approach to art, he focuses on a holistic and conceptual method, in which his personal biographical context plays a crucial role.

Kokosiński does not limit himself to traditional media or motifs but explores deeper layers of art through reflection on artistic language and the phenomenon of the image. His works present a deformation of images, revealing their imperfections and focusing on the painting process itself and the physicality of the material. Through his works, Kokosiński engages in meta-artistic considerations, incorporating an interest in the analysis of the language of art into his creative process. Kokosiński's work is characterized by the density of the image's material and the masterful use of painting techniques, allowing him to explore various aspects of art and reference the history of European art.

In the series "Thermocolorization" from 2015, Bartosz Kokosiński draws attention to the aesthetics of Warsaw housing estates by creating abstract portraits of these places. He uses pastel colors such as light purples, pinks, mint greens, and faded blues, which were commonly used during the thermal modernization of estates in Warsaw in the early 21st century. Kokosiński consciously refers to the phenomenon of "pastelization," incorporating the city's colors into his works. His paintings transcend the boundaries of traditional painting, exploring the material and painting technology, leading to the creation of a visual cacophony reflecting the pulsating urban space. In the painting "Targówek" presented at auction, we see colorful vertical sequences of block layouts, creating an impression of architectural density. This work suggests three-dimensionality, which is characteristic of the artist's later works. In other cycles, Kokosiński goes even further, moving beyond the two dimensions of the flat canvas and creating painting objects that exceed the traditional boundaries of painting, approaching sculpture or installation. Examples of this are the "Untitled" painting-objects. Deformation of the frame by bending, specific draping of the canvas to break the flatness of the surface, to enter into space, while at the same time giving it a very haptic character.

Three-dimensionality characterizes the cycle of works "Painting Devouring Reality," which is one of the most well-known in Bartosz Kokosiński's oeuvre. In it, the artist explores the phenomenon of the image through the deconstruction and reinterpretation of traditional painting forms. Kokosiński not only paints but becomes one with the image, delving into its essence from various perspectives. His works go beyond the conventional notion of painting, penetrating the third dimension and filling space, while simultaneously referencing the painting tradition. Kokosiński subjects his canvases to deformation, bending, wrinkling, and giving them new forms that go beyond the traditional boundaries of painting. Through this artistic process, the images become dynamic painting objects that interact with space and the viewer. The works from the cycle "Painting Devouring Reality" are authentic and emotional. Kokosiński treats canvases like living organisms that can be tired, contracted, and not always beautifully stretched. This metaphorical interpretation of images as living beings emphasizes the deep relationship between the artist and his works and his experimentation with the boundaries of painting and painting material. As Roman Lewandowski wrote about Kokosiński's works:

"The framing becomes not so much conventional as it simply spatializes and annexes the entire gallery area. However, the paintings/objects exhibited by Kokosiński continue to problematize what seems closest to the body and shirt; hence, the nomenclature and aesthetics of "skins" in his works will refer equally to the image and imaging, as well as to the body and the domain of corporeality. These thematic threads and relationships between them will touch equally on man and art. After all, let's not forget, each "painting devouring image" can be interpreted as a prosthesis and projection of the most sensual and bodily imaginations"

- Roman Lewandowski, Od symbolizmu do autokanibalizmu, EXIT, 2011.

Undoubtedly, Bartosz Kokosiński expands the horizons of contemporary art, exploring new possibilities of artistic expression and transcending the conventions of traditional painting. His works are appreciated by art critics, collectors, and art lovers alike for their originality, depth of message, and innovative approach to painting.