Jan Kalab

Jan Kalab is a renowned contemporary artist and graffiti pioneer from Prague, Czech Republic, whose work has evolved from the streets to major galleries worldwide. Originally known for his graffiti and street art under the alias "Cakes", Kalab has been a significant figure in the global street art movement for over two decades. His creative journey began in the early 1990s when he first engaged with the burgeoning graffiti scene in Prague, a city at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, where the cultural landscape was transforming rapidly after the fall of communism.

Kalab’s work is known for its bold, graphic style that blends elements of traditional graffiti with modern abstract art. He became recognized for his unique approach to letterforms, often deconstructing and reinterpreting them into dynamic, geometric shapes and vibrant patterns. As his artistic practice evolved, Jan Kalab transitioned from traditional graffiti to more intricate abstract works that incorporated elements of street culture while also pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.

A hallmark of Kalab's work is his innovative use of color, form, and space, which is especially evident in his spherical and circular works. His "bubble" paintings, in particular, have become iconic, capturing the fluidity and energy of graffiti while also evoking a sense of harmony and order. These pieces are often created using vibrant, smooth gradients, blending digital aesthetics with the organic feel of street art. The sense of depth and movement in his paintings allows them to appear almost three-dimensional, inviting viewers to explore the interaction between form, color, and space.