Jdeme na to!

Let's Do It!

Josef Hlinomaz (1914–1978) was one of the most distinctive personalities in twentieth-century Czech art. Although widely celebrated as a film and theatre actor, painting remained one of his lifelong artistic passions. His imaginative world combines gentle humour, fantasy, playful absurdity and remarkable creative freedom. Hlinomaz developed an unmistakable visual language characterised by vibrant colours, whimsical symbolism and an extraordinary gift for storytelling. Often associated with naïve art, his paintings reveal a sophisticated sense of composition and a highly individual artistic imagination beneath their apparent simplicity. Today, his works attract both admirers of his celebrated acting career and collectors of distinctive Czech post-war art. “Let's Do It!” (1970) is an exceptionally charming and richly detailed example of Hlinomaz's exuberant imagination. Executed in tempera on cardboard and measuring 35 × 50 cm (unframed), the painting unfolds as a magnificent miniature theatre of fantasy, populated by flying machines, parachutists, fairy-tale towers, circus strongmen, exotic animals and a painter standing before his easel. Dominating the sky is a remarkable green aircraft bearing the artist's name, the number 70 and a fluttering banner proclaiming “JDEME NA TO!” (“LET'S DO IT!”). Every corner of the composition reveals another delightful detail, inviting the viewer to discover new stories with each encounter. The brilliant blue sky, fresh green landscape and striking red-and-white architectural elements create a harmonious and energetic visual spectacle. Beyond its delightful humour, the painting celebrates imagination, artistic freedom, courage and the sheer joy of living. It is precisely this combination of visual richness and irresistible personality that makes Hlinomaz's art so appealing to collectors across generations. The painting is accompanied by two expert opinions, providing valuable supporting documentation. Among the documents is an expert report prepared by PhDr. Antonín Grůza on 5 May 2018, reference number 096/2018. CURATOR'S TIP The exceptional collecting appeal of this painting lies in its elaborate figurative composition, abundance of characteristic motifs and distinctly personal symbolism. The aircraft bearing the name HLINOMAZ and the number 70 introduces an autobiographical dimension that distinguishes the work from more conventional fantasy scenes. Particularly captivating is the figure of the painter holding his palette and brush, a delightful possible reference to the artist's own creative identity. The 1970 dating and accompanying expert documentation further enhance the painting's appeal to discerning collectors. This is a work that captures not merely Hlinomaz's unmistakable artistic style, but the exuberant spirit and extraordinary imagination of its creator. FOR INVESTORS The 1970 painting “Let's Do It!” represents a compelling opportunity to acquire a highly distinctive work by Josef Hlinomaz, whose unmistakable artistic language holds a unique position within Czech post-war art. Its richly detailed figurative composition, characteristic imagery, vibrant colours and personal symbolism contribute to its strong collecting appeal. The accompanying two expert opinions provide additional supporting documentation. With an attractive starting price of CZK 150,000, this remarkable painting offers collectors and investors an appealing opportunity to acquire an expressive and highly individual work with the potential for enduring collectible value.