This work is part of an ongoing cycle exploring ambivalent states of contemporary existence.
Title: Prejudged
Medium: Acrylic on canvas with relief-mounted squares
Year: 2026
Format: Portrait format (24 × 30 inches)
Colour Space: A polar contrast of cool blues and warm yellow-orange tones; red lines act as disruptions, while ivory forms an active interval
Stylistic Classification: Geometric-constructive figuration combining Cubist abstraction, colour-field painting, diagrammatic imagery and relief
„Prejudged” presents two profiles facing one another, emerging from clearly articulated planes of colour. Each side possesses an order and internal coherence of its own. Only a narrow, pale space remains between them. The work examines what happens when political or ideological convictions are no longer understood as reasoned positions, but take on the character of articles of faith.
The Strength of Conviction
Convictions are necessary. They provide orientation, a sense of where we stand, and the strength to stand for something. Those who immediately relativise every position may remain open, yet risk losing themselves. The firmness of the coloured planes therefore signifies not only hardening, but also integrity: the legitimate need to remain faithful to one’s values and not yield to every external pressure..
Certainty as Confinement
Yet convictions can become immune to scrutiny. The projecting squares give this mental constriction a physical form. The red graphs begin in calm agreement before erupting into forceful expressions of rejection as they approach the opposing side.
When political views become articles of faith, agreement is easily confused with moral worth. A single label then appears sufficient to pass judgment on the whole person. Encounter no longer takes place because judgment precedes it. Something similar occurs in friendships, families and working environments: we no longer seek dialogue with another person, but confirmation from someone who already belongs to our side.
Conclusion
„Prejudged” calls for neither the absence of conviction nor agreement. It asks whether we can possess convictions without being possessed by them. Integrity lies in remaining faithful to one’s values while recognising that even a firm judgment may be incomplete. Openness begins where convictions guide our thinking without bringing it to an end.
The work thus follows the principle of the Integrity of Ambivalence.