The Story Behind the Art
Abstract art inspired by the Costa Brava
The Story of Martin Zalesny – Abstract Artist in the Costa Brava
My work is inspired by the landscape and life of the Mediterranean — the sea, hills and mountains, people, and the changing light and colour of the seasons.
I often begin with something I have seen or photographed. Rather than reproduce it exactly, I gradually simplify the image, removing detail and allowing colour, shape and texture to become more important. The work moves between figurative and abstract painting, where the original subject remains present but is open to interpretation.
The physical surface of a painting is an important part of my process. Layers are built up, altered and sometimes scraped back, allowing earlier marks and decisions to remain visible. I work primarily with acrylic and oil, occasionally introducing materials such as plaster, clay, copper, iron and fabric to create additional depth and texture.
Living and working on the Costa Brava has naturally influenced my palette and subject matter, but I'm not interested in simply recording a particular place. I'm more interested in atmosphere — how light, colour, landscape and human presence can evoke a feeling or memory.
Ultimately, I want my paintings to offer a starting point rather than a complete explanation. By leaving parts unresolved, I hope to create space for the viewer's own imagination and experiences to become part of the work.
Martin Zalesny
Costa Brava, Spain
Explore my Gallery to discover original abstract paintings and prints inspired by the Costa Brava.