Sebastian Moń

Welcome to the world of Sebastian Moń, where concrete blocks and historic factories become not just a backdrop but a source of artistic inspiration. Each of his paintings is more than a work of art; it is a portal to another dimension, full of mysteries and stories waiting to be discovered.

Discover the industrial reality that comes alive in our unique prints. Immerse yourself in a world filled with melancholy

 

PRINTS | ABOUT THE ARTIST | BIO | EXHIBITION | INTERVIEW
Sebastian Moń

ARTIST INFORMATION

His work is a constantly evolving process, in which he seeks new ways of expression to create his unique painting world. Sebastian describes his art as “melancholic industrialism.” He finds inspiration mainly in music, which accompanies him at every step, but also draws from the raw urban landscapes, gray concrete blocks, and the spirit of old factories that are characteristic of his place of residence. The painter strives in his work to create a coherent world where each painting tells a story happening in one universe, while also being a separate dimension, not easily grasped at first glance.

Sebastian Moń is an artist who not only expresses the beauty of industrial rawness but also conveys deep emotions and prompts reflection through his works. This makes them unique works of art for any enthusiast who appreciates the originality and individuality of the artist.

BIO

Sebastian Moń, born and raised in Pszczyna (Poland), currently lives and creates in Dąbrowa Górnicza, which has become an endless source of inspiration for him. His artistic journey began with a fascination for drawing but gradually evolved into a deep love for acrylic painting. Through consistent work and exploring various paths of expression, Moń has shaped his own unique style, which he describes as “melancholic industrialism.”

The artist’s exhibitions, both solo and group, have been held in numerous galleries and cultural venues across Poland. The most significant exhibitions include “[Bez]senność” at the Art Gallery of the Palace of Culture Zagłębia in Dąbrowa Górnicza and “Art of Imagination” at the Praga Koneser Center in Warsaw. His works have also been presented in thematic exhibitions such as “Melancholy – Mystery-Loneliness-Silence” at various locations.

Moń continuously develops his style and refines his painting technique to better express his unique vision of the world. His paintings, also available as collectible prints, are appreciated by both art critics and contemporary art enthusiasts who seek originality and individuality in artistic works.

Sebastian Moń

EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS:

2023

Solo exhibition, “[Bez]senność”, Art Gallery of the Palace of Culture Zagłębia, Dąbrowa Górnicza
Solo exhibition, large-format prints in the space of Fabryka Pełna Życia, Dąbrowa Górnicza
Group exhibition, pre-auction exhibition, Wiskott Palace, Wrocław
Group exhibition, pre-auction exhibition, Wiskott Palace, Wrocław
Author meeting, University of Silesia, American Corner, Katowice

2022

Solo exhibition, “Art of Imagination”, Praga Koneser Center, Warsaw
Group exhibitions, “Melancholy – Mystery-Loneliness-Silence”, Dark Side of Art. Good Time Łódź | Contemporary Art Gallery “Elektrownia”, Czeladź | St. George’s Church, Oleśnica

2021

Group exhibition, “Triangulum”, Dark Side of Art, Contemporary Art Gallery “Elektrownia”, Czeladź

2020

Group exhibition, “Triangulum”, Dark Side of Art, Good Time – Łódź Historical Apartment Complex, Łódź
Solo exhibition, Klub pod Kolumnami, Wrocław

2019

Group exhibitions, “The Duality of the World/ Dualitatem Mundi” – Dark Side of Art. Dom Zarazy, Gdańsk | Contemporary Art Gallery “Elektrownia”, Czeladź | Klub Pod Kolumnami, Wrocław

2016

Solo exhibition, MDK Bogucice Zawodzie, Katowice

2012

Solo exhibition, “Walking in the Fog”, Pszczyna Cultural Center, Pszczyna

2011

Solo exhibition, “The Art of Suffering” – Palace of Culture Zagłębia, Dąbrowa Górnicza
Solo exhibition, “Into (In)human Minds” – MDK Bogucice Zawodzie, Katowice

ARTIST IN THE MEDIA:

POST SCRIPTUM

Sebastian Moń’s paintings – interview
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UNIVERSITY OF SILESIA

The Magic of Acrylic Painting
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RADIO ESKA

Industrial landscapes and an inimitable style. Sebastian Moń has enchanted the art world
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PRZEGLĄD DĄBROWSKI

Painter of Melancholy
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TVP 3

Metroplus 2021, Sebastian Moń – “Industrial Melancholism”
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TVP3

Metroplus 2023, Sebastian Moń’s exhibition at Fabryka Pełna Życia
Watch the video (the material starts at 4:40 min)

AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS:

2023

Winner of the Mayor of Dąbrowa Górnicza‘s Award in the field of artistic creation, promotion, and protection of culture

2020

Nominee for Artist of the Year 2020 – Independent Literary and Artistic Quarterly Post Scriptum.

INTERVIEW

What inspires you to create art, and how do you strive to develop your work?

I am inspired by virtually everything that happens around me. Some of my ideas for paintings are inspired by my dreams, while others are influenced by the industrial landscapes that surround me. Sometimes an idea comes to me during a running workout when I can be alone and meditate in motion. However, on a daily basis, I find the greatest inspiration in music, which accompanies me in almost every activity whenever possible. I can’t imagine painting without my favorite sounds. I usually listen to soundtracks from games (Silent Hill, Deus Ex, The Ascent, etc.) because I am a huge fan of electronic entertainment in the realm of PC gaming. A large part of the music I listen to is ambient, post-rock, future garage, or black metal. I am also fascinated by Nordic and pagan themes, so the sounds of Wardruna and Heilung often play in my player. In each of these styles, I find a piece of my world.

I see that you draw inspiration from many sources, from music to urban landscapes. Speaking of which, I’m wondering if there are any motifs or themes in your works that recur and hold particular significance for you?

There definitely are, and they appear regularly. In my works, you can find industrial motifs, which are directly related to the place where I live. We have no shortage of these steel scenes here, and for me, they are very inspiring spaces. All sorts of rusty colors, cables, and old walls that are elements of bustling cities are motifs closest to my heart and my internal sense of aesthetics. For some time now, you can also notice a certain trend in my painting, namely the appearance of various cosmic elements such as stars, comets, constellations, astronauts, etc. This is directly related to my fascination with everything that touches on the subject of space and the universe from a scientific perspective, as well as the more spiritual aspect of ourselves.

Referring to the previously mentioned inspiration from music — do you have any other rituals that accompany you in the creation process?

Primarily music, as I mentioned before. Before I start putting paint on the palette, I always turn on a playlist with songs to get me in the right mood for painting. I also often brew a good coffee. That’s all I need.

Is there a piece of work that you consider particularly special in your artistic career?

Every painting means a lot to me, but the fact is that some works are closer to my heart than others. I don’t know if it’s the most important in my entire body of work, but certainly the most personal is a painting titled “Digital Melancholy.” So far, it is the only painting that has never been and will never be for sale, because I have included many personal motifs in it, concerning myself and my loved ones. I’ll keep the details a secret. I can only reveal that people viewing this work in person, if they observe well and connect the dots, can learn a lot about me and find many hidden elements.

Moving on to other aspects of your work — what challenges do you most often face in painting? I mean the moments that are the most demanding for you but at the same time offer valuable lessons and help develop your artistic skills.

There are many challenges, and each work is its own story. Generally, I believe that painting (like running) quickly teaches humility, and it is more of a long-distance discipline rather than a sprint. As a born sprinter, I had to learn a lot and develop the self-discipline and humility needed to overcome the hardships of painting. When I started my adventure with painting, I must admit it wasn’t love at first brushstroke, but by nature, I am consistent, and it was the same in this case. Today, I love what I do and can’t live without it. Often, I encounter various problems in my creative path. I don’t always achieve the intended effect while painting. Sometimes, a motif just doesn’t work, and it ends with painting over the canvas and starting anew. There are many such stories, and each teaches me not only about painting but, above all, about myself. That’s why I appreciate the effort I put into creating my painting universe. Of course, I don’t want it to sound like painting is just hard work. There are times when I paint a piece with pleasure from the moment of sketching to the final details on the canvas, and it feels great!

Are there artists whose work or approach to creativity particularly inspire you?

I’m constantly searching for my own path. I don’t have idols or creators who particularly inspire me. I constantly look for new inspirations and search for new paths to continue developing. I strive to create paintings that were missing in my internal world of art. That’s why I try to create a coherent universe in which each character in subsequent paintings could live in the world created in the previous or next work.

What significance does the presence of viewers have in your creative activity, and how does it affect your engagement in creating?

I would be lying if I said it’s not important to me. Like any creator, I need an audience. I am fortunate to have built a steady group of followers, which gradually grows, and I can create for myself and people who share a similar sense of aesthetics. This drives me to continue and shows that it is worth pursuing not only for myself but also to invite others into my universe and share this painted world.

Besides the mentioned inspirations and rituals that help you in creating, what techniques or tools are key in your painting?

This will be classic. Regarding the technical aspects, it’s worth investing in good quality equipment, starting with pencils and sketchbooks and ending with paints, canvases, or lighting. Everyone has to go through this journey themselves and find what suits them best. Acrylic painting is quite specific and can be incredibly irritating in terms of the coverage of some paints, extracting certain colors, or making corrections. For me, the key is the proper selection of colors from various manufacturers’ palettes, so that the paints cover well, have saturated colors, and are pleasant to apply on the canvas. For some time now, an integral part of my work has been the use of fluorescent paints, which, in combination with other colors, can nicely saturate and highlight them. This way, the paintings come to life and gain depth. My approach to quality does not end with the creation process itself but extends to every detail related to my work — from frames and certificates of authenticity to other elements where I pay attention to every detail.

You mentioned the difficulties you encountered at the beginning of your painting journey and learning self-discipline. Do you have any advice for young artists just starting their artistic careers that would help them at the start of their painting adventure?

Sometimes I feel like I’m just starting myself. I still have a lot to do, learn, and improve. First and foremost, people who feel an inner need to create should do what they truly believe in. The most important thing is honesty in what you do, but also humility, as I mentioned earlier. The art world is not just sweet praise and pats on the back. It’s often a tough nut to crack, and it’s worth developing self-discipline and consistency in pursuing your goals. Setting a goal, we should also be aware that not always there will be a medal waiting at the finish line; it might be quite the opposite, and we will face even greater challenges. Create, make mistakes, improve, learn about yourself and the world around you, draw conclusions, and climb higher, and most importantly, derive satisfaction and fulfillment from it, and the “rewards” will eventually come.

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