Evolution of Marat Dus's Style and Philosophy: A Journey Through Time

Marat's work, like any great art, has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting deep personal experiences and cultural influences. Each new stage of his journey is not just a change in style, but also a shift in technique, a testament to the artist's inner growth, his constant search, and pursuit of something new.

Early Underground Period (Mid-1980s – Mid-1990s)

Marat Dus' artistic journey began in Almaty, where, as a student at the art institute, he became one of the founders and leaders of the underground abstract movement in Kazakhstan. This period can be described as naive-expressive, with his paintings, mostly large oil canvases, radiating boldness and brightness. His technique involved the use of pure, open colors applied with large, expressive brushstrokes, which created a "shouting" effect, making his work stand out among his contemporaries.

However, despite this visual intensity, his palette was carefully considered, with harmonious color combinations. Behind the abstraction, one could clearly see figures of people, architectural elements, and nature, making the works recognizable, though still fantastical. During this period, Marat also began creating intricate figurative compositions in pen on paper, using precise linework to craft detailed, complex images that viewers could study for hours. His technique in these drawings was meticulous, contrasting with the boldness of his paintings. This period can be characterized as "underground naïve" in both style and technique, combining experimental boldness with unexpected lyricism.

Abstract Impressionism Period (Mid-1990s – Early 2000s)

Marat Dus’ relocation to Israel marked a turning point in his life and art. The new cultural environment and the Mediterranean climate influenced both his perception of the world and his artistic style and techniques. Bright, vivid colors continued to dominate, but his painting technique became more detailed. Instead of the large, broad brushstrokes of his earlier period, he began using a palette knife, creating smaller, textured strokes, allowing for a more nuanced interaction between colors and surfaces.

At this point in his career, Marat reflected on how people are naturally inclined to search for familiar shapes and objects when examining art. He explains: "When examining a piece of art, people are inclined to look for familiar shapes and objects. However, such literal characters have no room in non-tangible art. In my opinion, the idea of recognizable shapes and structures living within irrational thoughts and emotions is highly intriguing. I truly believe that the most complex emotions can be evoked by the simplest forms."

This philosophy aligns with the fluid, dynamic abstraction of this period, where forms and colors seemed to flow into one another, creating an effect of constant movement and transformation. His technique allowed colors to merge and transition smoothly, while figures became less defined, absorbed into the interplay of hues. It was during this highly productive period that Marat’s experiments with technique and composition reached new heights.

"Silent Abstract" Period (Mid-2000s – 2010)

The influence of Paul Cézanne became crucial for the next stage of Marat Dus' work. Gradually, the brightness and openness of his palette gave way to more complex and deep color combinations. His technique also shifted, with softer, more blended brushstrokes replacing the sharp, textured application of his earlier periods. The colors grew darker and more muted, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and introspection.

This period, often referred to by art critics as the "dark abstract," is marked by a search for harmony and refinement, both in style and technique. Marat’s painting technique became more delicate and layered, as he explored the emotional depth of his color choices. His works from this time are less about expressive energy and more about quiet reflection. The technique of gradual layering and subtle tonal shifts became key elements of his artistic process during this phase.

Geometric Period (Since 2010)

After 2010, Marat Dus shifted his focus once again, moving towards geometric forms. His technique became more structured, with sharp, defined lines enclosing abstract elements within precise boundaries. These geometric forms smoothly transitioned into one another, while inside them, one could see otherworldly landscapes, foggy realms hidden within the rigid geometry. The color palette became even softer, dominated by shades of blue, gray, and blue-green.

In this period, his technique involved balancing geometric precision with a fluid sense of movement, allowing forms to suggest surreal, dreamlike spaces. His brushwork became smoother, and the use of color more subtle, as Marat sought to introduce order to the abstract chaos he had explored earlier. Despite the structural elements, his technique still left room for imagination and emotional engagement, making his works both intriguing and multifaceted.

Marat's Artistic Vision and Process

Reflecting on his creative process, Marat notes: "I usually begin painting very spontaneously and during the working process enter a trance-like state. The composition starts to show itself gradually." This spontaneous approach allows his emotions and intuition to guide the painting, rather than any premeditated plan or outline.

He hopes that viewers of his work can appreciate not only the form, color, and composition but also the emotional depth behind each piece. "I hope that you will find my work interesting in terms of form, color as well as composition. You might see something that reminds you of a familiar tangible object. You even might fall in love with an abstract painting, without knowing exactly why. The years will pass by and this feeling of infatuation is very likely to stay with you forever."

Marat Dus’ works stand as a testament to how an artist can, over a lifetime, fearlessly experiment with both style and technique, changing forms, methods, and approaches while remaining true to his unique vision of the world.

The artist is always happy to hear feedback and suggestions from viewers. Additionally, he offers the opportunity to purchase both original works and prints of the paintings that have captured your interest.