Martin Safárik

Martin Safárik (1983) is a young Slovak priest who simultaneously studied opera singing and received private tuition from a well-known Bratislava painter Pavel Potocek. Over the period of the last five years, five solo exhibitions presented him to the public as a creative exponent of spiritual work inspired by Christianity, and an artist with an extremely sensitive approach to the complex issues of human existence, responsibility and faith.
The current show held under the title "My Homeland" is the first of a series of the artist's exhibitions reaching beyond the borders of Slovakia.
It is dedicated to European Cultural Heritage Day. The ambitious goal of this international event, held in 49 countries in Europe, draws attention to the cultural heritage, identity and spiritual roots of different nations. Martin Safárik has taken on this enormous challenge and expressed it in his latest paintings.
The artist admits drawing much of his inspiration for the new paintings from the messages of Pope John Paul II who placed emphasis on Christian roots and European history, on the important role of Slavic nations capable of showing deep religious devotion and sharing the spiritual wealth with the others. Pope John Paul II paid special attention to Slovakia and on the "ad limina" visit to Rome in 1996, emphasised that "Slovakia has an irreplaceable role in building Europe in the Third Millennium",
The latest works by Martin Safárik reflect the concepts of homeland, nation, and faith, as well as national pride and humility, hospitality and, above all, the awareness of one's own identity in Europe. This spiritual message from Slovakia to the world interpreted by universal symbols and metaphors blends a number of meanings: the Cross as a universal symbol of Christian faith and life, the double cross as a symbol of the Nitra princedom and the Great Moravia and part of our national coat-of-arms, and outlines of our homeland evoking a fixed point viewed from infinity. However, his paintings also feature fragments of Ci&many motifs that can be interpreted as a sign of hospitality and return to the national roots. The ever-present clouds and outlines of mountains evoke open space and the character of our country and its inhabitants, as well as the magically impressive face of Christ reminiscent of the artist's unshakeable religious faith. Symbols and signs are complemented with colour symbolism. Grey as a symbol of spirituality is juxtaposed with gold pigment adding grandeur. The painter also uses black to add a touch of drama, and the colours of our national flag, endowing his paintings with life and distinction.