Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to MAXIM. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

MAXIM, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Being a full-time artist brings inherent uncertainty, doubt, frustration, and discontent. I firmly believe that to tap into one’s 100% potential, one has to invest 100% of the effort. What you put in, you’ll get out. There are no shortcuts or gimmicks. They are short-lived and not sustainable. Only an authentic and entirely believable work can withstand the test of time. In a modern society driven by the $, making a living as a fine art artist is an adventure, and it is not for everyone. It requires talent, enormous hard work, sacrifice, pure luck, the sprinkle of stardust, and magic. Yes, it’s not going to work without it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a Czech-American painter. I was born and raised in Prague before settling in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California, in 1999. With an international presence, I have showcased my artwork in prestigious exhibitions in Los Angeles, New York, Dublin, Prague, Pistoia, Mexico City, Singapore, London, and Sydney, transforming each solo show into a captivating cultural experience.
From a young age, my artistic journey was ignited within the captivating realms of my uncle’s renowned “attic art studio” in Prague. Lost amidst the intricate maze of colossal canvases, I was entranced by their grandeur, vibrant hues, and captivating interplay of colors.

My formal artistic education began at the Graphic Arts school in Prague, where he pursued multiple degrees in graphic design, photography, lithography, calligraphy, and letterpress. Immersed in this creative environment, I also delved into drawing and painting, honing my skills and nurturing my passion.

While music initially served as my creative outlet, I learned the guitar and drums, leading me to collaborate with various bands. My talent and dedication caught the attention of EMI, resulting in the release of several albums that garnered recognition and acclaim in my homeland, the Czech Republic.

At 24, I embarked on an adventurous journey to the United States. My path led me through vibrant cities like San Francisco and Chicago, where I established myself as a respected graphic designer, leaving a lasting impression with my skills. However, in the captivating embrace of Los Angeles, I found my true artistic calling.

Immersing myself in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, I found solace and inspiration within an atelier where I devoted myself entirely to painting. My creations draw upon a rich tapestry of historical studies, observations of nature, scientific discoveries, and reflections on socioeconomic and political events, both past and present. These diverse influences fuel my artistic expression and give life to my thought-provoking and captivating works of art.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

It’s the freedom of doing what I am meant to do. It’s listening to my gut, taking risks, and never giving up. All these life lessons and decisions make an artist an artist. It is all the resilience and conviction in your ability and uniqueness. It is finding a voice that doesn’t fall on deaf ears. It’s the satisfaction of making a difference in someone’s life. It’s the creating of something new and true to your values. It’s all the excited people at opening nights waiting to see what fresh you came up with—their eagerness to learn about your journey and discoveries.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

There are a few aspects of my mission as an artist. One is the unquenchable desire to create, to make something uniquely mine. It’s about searching for the best way to express my innermost feelings and fantasies. Another one is the ambition of being exceptional. I am constantly searching to better myself as an artist, whether it’s new techniques, experimenting with different media and materials, breaking boundaries, or pushing the envelope. Looking for new ways to create something new, never staying inside the box, and always looking out.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.maximpainter.com
• Instagram: maximpainter
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-havlicek-60966226a/

Image Credits
All images provided by MAXIM Archives