JanWojnar
Biography
Jan Wojnar (1944, Vendryně, Czech Republic–2014, Třinec, Czech Republic) was a Czech conceptual artist and poet known for his work in visual poetry, experimental photography, and process-based art. His practice explored themes of transformation, perception, and intermediality, often involving the active participation of the viewer. His artistic approach was deeply influenced by the ephemeral aspects of nature, leading him to work extensively with paper, sand, and light-sensitive materials. His art evolved into a conceptual practice that challenged conventional artistic structures by introducing chance, movement, and process as central elements. Wojnar established himself within the Czech conceptual and experimental art scene, producing a diverse range of works, including photograms, object-based installations, and artist books. His series "Přesýpací básně”(1968)(Hourglass Poems) involved interactive sand compositions that changed with movement, symbolizing the delicate balance between structure and randomness. Another key series, "Mřížkové básně” (1976) (Grid Poems), combined existing images and found objects with newly created compositions, prompting viewers to rethink their perception of visual relationships. His "Autofotogramy" (Self-Photograms) were created by gradually exposing photographic paper to light, capturing the idea of process and impermanence in visual form. Wojnar exhibited widely throughout his career, both in the Czech Republic and internationally, with his works becoming part of major collections, including the Gallery of Fine Arts in Ostrava. In 2012, he was awarded the City of Třinec Prize for his contributions to conceptual and experimental art. In 2023, a retrospective exhibition was held, showcasing his early works and radical experiments up to 1974, highlighting his enduring influence on process-based and visual poetry movements.
