Tycjan Knut – Subtle Abstractions

A flair for the unknown and a fascination with the art of past decades characterize the oeuvre of Tycjan Knut. Born in Warsaw in 1985, the artist now lives and works in London and is known for his subtle and minimalist abstractions that strike a balance between tradition and independent formal language.

Nuanced tonal differences and subtle colors characterize Knut’s paintings. His works are the result of a multi-level composition with overlapping layers of color, suggesting an organic development of the paintings. Without using sketches or plans, Knut responds to what emerges as he paints, creating a balance between intuition and precision.

At the heart of his work is a desire to create harmony between light, texture, and color. To this end, Knut is particularly close to the concept of “soft geometry,” in which none of the components dominates the others. His compositions require time and thought: Upon closer inspection, what appears simple at first glance, reveals a complexity and sophistication that captivates the viewer. This gives rise to images that lead us to recognize new depths.

Tycjan Knut, light matters 29, 2021, Acrylic on canvas, 80 × 60 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Light matters 29, 2021, Acrylic on canvas, 80 × 60 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Tycjan Knut, Untitled 19, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 70 × 50 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Untitled 19, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 70 × 50 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery

Tycjan Knut finds his inspiration in the world of Abstract Art of the 20th century. He is particularly interested in the unknown “masters” of the 1960s and 1970s. In doing so, he devotes himself to researching the history of art, often rummaging through archives in search of long-forgotten masterpieces. The echo of this tradition is palpable in his works, but at the same time, he goes beyond it, freeing himself from the constraints of a fixed formula.

Knut is a remarkable artist whose works push the traditional boundaries of abstract painting. In his works, he impressively combines minimalist aesthetics, conceptual depth, and an unwavering dedication to his creative intuition.

Tycjan Knut, Untitled 14, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 83.8 × 62.2 cm © The Artist, Image via Tappan
Untitled 14, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 83.8 × 62.2 cm © The Artist, Image via Tappan
Tycjan Knut, Untitled 67, 2022, Acrylic on canvas, 100 × 80 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Untitled 67, 2022, Acrylic on canvas, 100 × 80 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Tycjan Knut, light matters 9, 2021, Acrylic on canvas, 154 × 124 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Light matters 9, 2021, Acrylic on canvas, 154 × 124 cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Tycjan Knut, light matters 20, acrylic on canvas 82cm x 62cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Light matters 20, acrylic on canvas 82cm x 62cm © The Artist, Image via Cadogan Gallery
Tycjan Knut, Untitled 16, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 83.8 × 62.2 cm © The Artist, Image via Tappan
Untitled 16, 2020, Acrylic on canvas, 83.8 × 62.2 cm © The Artist, Image via Tappan

Further Reading

https://cadogangallery.com/artists/59-tycjan-knut/

https://www.artsy.net/artist/tycjan-knut

https://www.artistcloseup.com/blog/interview-tycjan-knut

Aesence is an independent art and design publication dedicated to minimalist aesthetics. Founded out of a deep appreciation and fascination, Aesence strives to be an inspiring, informative and truly useful resource for its readers.