Jakub Špaňhel

Jakub Špaňhel (*1976) is a very well-known artist of the middle generation of painters, who has long attracted the interest of collectors and galleries. He studied in the studios of Milan Knížák and Jiří David at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague. His work is characterized by an expressive style, in which he blurs forms and themes to the edge of abstraction. However, he often complements expressive painting with finely detailed elements, creating a strong contrast. He experiments with various media, using acrylic, oil, spray pigment, collage, and drawing. His paintings are known for a layered painting style that shifts between abstraction and recognizable themes. He is interested in church interiors, urban landscapes, and small still lifes, in which he seeks the poetry of everyday life. His work appears spontaneous but is deeply thought-out.

Špaňhel’s works are represented in a number of institutions, including the National Gallery in Prague and the Gallery of the Capital City of Prague, and he belongs to the painters who have managed to combine lyricism with the energy of gesture.