Jan Kaláb Transforms Shape And Color Into Universal Beauty
Photo: Jan Kaláb, the visionary artist redefining form and color, pictured in his studio surrounded by his iconic creations.
From Graffiti Pioneer To Global Innovator
Jan Kaláb discusses his evolution from graffiti to sculpture, his passion for shape and color, and how technology and experimentation fuel his creative journey across diverse artistic mediums.
Jan Kaláb is a visionary whose vibrant journey through artistic mediums and bold exploration of creativity has made him one of the most remarkable contemporary artists of our time. From his early days as a pioneer in the underground graffiti movement in Prague to his current status as a global sensation in painting, sculpture, and digital art, Jan’s innovation knows no bounds. His work is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of true artistry, constantly pushing the boundaries of shape, color, and dimension to reimagine our shared perceptions of beauty and form.
What makes Jan’s art so universally captivating is his fearless approach to experimentation. Whether it’s transforming graffiti into three-dimensional creations, marrying painting with sculptural forms, or harnessing cutting-edge digital technologies like animated NFTs, his work exudes a transformative energy that bridges the familiar with the unknown. His pieces invite audiences on a profound journey of imagination, where universal symbols like the circle are deconstructed and reborn, sparking personal interpretations and emotional connections.
As a Czech artist with an unmistakably global impact, Jan has exhibited his works in the most prestigious galleries and cultural institutions around the world, from New York to Shanghai, London to Rio de Janeiro. Yet, his creative philosophy remains rooted in humility, discipline, and an unwavering passion for innovation. Whether displayed in a museum or discovered on a city street, his bold shapes and radiant colors speak to something deeply universal—a celebration of possibility, perspective, and the endless evolution of art itself. It is an honor to spotlight Jan Kaláb in this issue of WOWwART. His story is not just one of artistic triumph but a reminder that the most extraordinary creations often emerge from the courage to reinvent and redefine.
Jan Kaláb is a master innovator, blending disciplines to craft mesmerizing works that transcend boundaries and ignite universal wonder.
You’ve transitioned from graffiti to 3-D graffiti, and now to painting and sculpture. What inspired you to evolve your artistic expression across these different mediums?
Repetition naturally sparks curiosity in me. When I delve deeply into one medium, I eventually start asking, “How can I push this further? What happens if I transform it into something new?” Experimenting with different mediums not only refreshes the theme but also allows me to reinterpret my ideas from a different angle. Each transition feels like an evolution, helping me move forward on my artistic journey.
“Repetition naturally sparks curiosity in me.” –Jan Kaláb
Your work focuses heavily on shape and color, without replicating existing forms or images. How do you approach creating pieces that feel familiar yet abstract, and how do you hope audiences will respond?
At the heart of my work is a universal shape: the circle. I’ve simplified all forms into this singular, symbolic geometry. The circle becomes a canvas for exploration—a line within it separates the outer and inner worlds, symbolizing opposites like positive and negative spaces. By modifying this basic form with colors and variations, it can evoke a wide array of associations. My hope is to create space for the viewer’s imagination, inviting them to interpret and engage with the work on their own terms.
The early years of your career were spent in the Prague street art scene. How did this underground culture shape your artistic voice and philosophy?
To be precise, it was the graffiti scene that defined my early career. For over two decades, this subculture was my world. Painting my name across cities, experimenting with styles, and finding the best spots became my obsession. Graffiti taught me discipline and persistence—if you wanted to stand out, you had to work harder and better than the next guy. That same energy and drive continue to fuel my artistic practice today, even though the art world operates on a much more complex level.
Having exhibited globally and being part of notable collections like Dior and Tiffany, how do you feel your Czech heritage influences your art on an international stage?
To be honest, my Czech heritage doesn’t directly manifest in my work. While I’m incredibly proud of my roots and inspired by the cultural legacy of Prague and the Czech Republic, my art is abstract and intentionally universal. I aim to communicate ideas that transcend geographic or cultural boundaries.
Can you describe your creative process for blending painting and sculpture? How do you decide which forms and colors will work best together in each piece?
I approach painting as if it were sculpture—treating the silhouette of the canvas as an integral part of the artwork. The essence of painting on a shaped canvas adds a unique dimension to the piece. Interestingly, I’ve found that almost any color can work with any shape, as long as the composition is well-balanced. For me, it’s about finding harmony between form and color.
You’ve explored animated NFTs as a new form of digital art. How do you see technology influencing the future of your work and the art world more broadly?
Technology is removing boundaries in art. Every new innovation opens up fresh possibilities for creative expression, but it’s also overwhelming—there’s so much to explore that no single person can master it all. For example, I’m fascinated by self-generated art and the endless opportunities it offers. I see technology as a tool that will continue to evolve how we create and experience art, making it more dynamic and accessible than ever before.
