The Birštonas Museum recently opened an exhibition by Arūnas Valančius titled "Between Chaos and Clarity," inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a unique synthesis of art and meditation. At 57, Valančius, a meditation practitioner and therapist, perceives ceramics not just as a creative endeavor but as a pathway to discovering inner peace and harmony.
His works stand out due to a distinctive approach to the creative process, where the outcome becomes a secondary element, and the focus is placed on the act of creation itself.
Central to Valančius' artistry is meditative focus. He believes that engaging in the process without tension or a desire for a specific result allows the artist to reveal their true potential. In crafting ceramic pieces, a state of ease and tranquility serves as the foundation for spontaneity, experimentation, and creative freedom. This perspective enables Valančius to produce unique artworks that express a harmony between chaotic, uncontrolled elements and precisely defined forms.
Currently on display are Valančius' ceramic works inspired by the Korean "Moonjar" form. This traditional porcelain shape, originating from the Joseon dynasty, breaks conventional ceramic canons—typically, vessels have a wide base and a narrow opening, while the "Moonjar" features a wider opening and a narrower base, evoking intrigue and a sense of mystery. In Arūnas' creations, this form becomes part of a meditative process where the journey of creation is paramount, rather than the final result.
Arūnas Valančius' ceramics are more than mere artworks. Each piece is a meditative experience that reveals a delicate balance between chaos and order, unpredictability and clear forms. This art invites not only admiration but also contemplation on how materials, forms, and processes can unite into a cohesive work reflecting harmony.
The exhibition can be visited at the Birštonas Museum (Vytauto g. 9, Birštonas) until December 8. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these unique ceramic creations and dive into a meditative world of art where chaos and clarity become one.
Irma Kereišienė
Administrator of Museum Activities
Birštonas Museum