Martin Kafes33 Hirth (* 1981)
Born in Czech Republic, works global.
My artistic expression was shaped by the free creative environment of the graffiti scene. This experience taught me to perceive the line as a fundamental building block of expression — a tool through which I can develop endless formal variability on an abstract level.
At the beginning of each painting there is, at first glance, a random impulse — a splash, a gesture, an eruption of color. Yet nothing is left to chance. Every line, curve, and bend is part of a carefully thought-out concept in which layers of shapes and structures accumulate like archaeological strata. In the painting process, I try to partially reveal these layers — so they can be read, uncovered, and reconstructed.
I create canvases that, through the harmony of organic structures, offer the viewer a meditative experience while stimulating their imagination. I leave room for associations, fantasy, and multiple interpretations. Form and idea are never separate for me; experimentation is their natural component.
I transform everyday surfaces into visual experiences — I paint not only on canvas, but also on concrete walls, sports grounds, cars, bicycles, helmets, and ceramics. I work with PVC, LED light, mesh, and 3D printing. In my latest works, I expand the painting into additional dimensions — using layering, relief, or augmented reality, drawing the viewer into an interactive dialogue and offering different points of view. The painting ceases to be static — it becomes space and light.
Martin’s art has been exhibited in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Costa Rica, London, Brussels, and Prague. His paintings were even loaned to the offices of the team of successful presidential candidate Petr Pavel.
Last year, Martin won first place in the Art Grand Slam award in the Public Space category for his basketball court design for the only Czech NBA player, Vít Krejčí. He also gained recognition for the iconic “Pasta Jacket”. created for NHL star David “Pasta” Pastrňák during the Ice Hockey World Championship in the Czech Republic.
