One day with Martin Lukáč in Prague

It was just a year ago in Budapest that Martin Lukáč's solo exhibition was on show at Erika Deák Gallery in Budapest, showcasing his paintings that European and North American gallery circles also keep an eye on. Martin was born in Piešťany, Slovakia, and the young painter graduated from the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague with a Master's degree in Painting—and the artist still lives in the city to this day. His powerful, abstract compositions evoke an intuitive creative process reminiscent of gesturalism, and the liberation of graffiti artists and the vibrant colours he uses are the hallmarks of his practice. His artwork is truly expressive: the canvas is as much a representation of childhood comic book heroes as it is a symbol of male hedonism—the imprint of Martin's strong will to live. Health and sport are an essential part of his dynamic and active daily life, as is the natural harmony of trends and elegance, the rhythm of creation and relaxation, and music. Walking through the streets of Prague day and night, we not only discover the layers of Martin's character, but also take a step closer to understanding the aesthetics and motifs behind his paintings.

MORNING

What is your go-to breakfast?

I love mornings. Currently, my favourite breakfast is scrambled eggs with protein bread. A chocolate protein drink, and mozzarella or some cottage cheese on the side. Mornings are very important. I always try to be fresh and have something healthy to create a good base for the rest of my day.

What is your current obsession?

A hundred pull-ups and a hundred push-ups every other morning.

Would you call yourself an introvert or extrovert?

Extrovert.

If you had to give away each pair of shoes you own, except for two, which pairs would you keep?

I’d keep my Loake double buckle monk style shoes and my Adidas NMD S1. I’m always wearing my Adidas sneakers while working. I fell in love with them. They’re also great for indoor gyms and outdoor calisthenic workouts as they are very lightweight. Plus, you can easily jump over the rope and practise the front lever.
Loake is a traditional English shoe which I love. Many Hollywood stars wear them and that's because they're super stylish and comfy. The price and quality is fantastic too. I used to collect sneakers, but now I prefer dressy shoes and cool boots. However, I still have about 70 pairs of sneakers…

AFTERNOON

Do you remember the first painting you sold?

It was a copy of Van Gogh’s painting of Sunflowers. My grandma sold it to her friend when I was around 14 or 15. With the money I earned I bought a bass guitar, which I tried to play as a teenager.

Dead or alive, who would you like to have lunch with and where would you take them?

I’d go with Action Bronson to Kantýna restaurant in Prague, then we would have some Italian wine at Casa De Carli. Action is a funny guy and I’m a big fan of his music and Youtube channel, ‘Fuck that’s delicious’ where he travels the world to eat, drink and enjoy life with his buddies. I think he’d enjoy being with me a lot. I’m the same type of foodie.

What is the one thing in your home that always makes you smile?

The beautiful smile of my girlfriend.

Do you have a habit you’re trying to give up?

There are few of those! I think biting my nails is pretty bad. Gotta quit that asap. It’s not very mature…

EVENING

What are you most proud of?

That I am surrounded by good people and great friends. Being healthy is also part of it. There are many things that I’m grateful for. I’m doing what I love—that’s true happiness.

How do you usually relax?

I mostly relax with my friends over a good drink and a cigar at Mánesova Bar and Books. This should happen at least twice a week. For me, a good smoke and whisky or a fine rum is heaven. It's also a good remedy if my friends or I are injured from Thai boxing.

How do you celebrate with friends in Prague?

We often go to Casa De Carli, Čestr, Zem Prague, Kantýna or QQ Asian Kitchen. These places are sick! I visit them as often as I can.

What are you up to lately?

There are a lot of things I'm looking forward to in the future. A brand new private gallery is going to open at the end of summer in the centre of Bratislava, in the Slovak National Uprising Square. I can't give you any details yet, but follow me for more information in the future! I will also have a solo exhibition in Ostrava, Czech Republic in September at Galérie Sokolská.

Photos: ONDŘEJ ZAVŘEL | Instagram

Martin Lukáč | Web | Instagram

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