Roman Zalac

Since childhood, drawing and doodling were Roman’s constant companions. However, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that Roman began his artistic journey, drawing inspiration from his surroundings at the time – specifically Miami Art Deco, with its layered drama of the urban experience. Since Zalac was born in Zagreb, Croatia, his chosen motifs and backgrounds also suggest a European influence. Presently, he lives in Bishop, Georgia, about an hour from Atlanta.

Over the years, Roman’s style evolved into what it is today: a rich amalgam of people, places, and personal experiences, explored well beyond the surface. Roman’s use of color and choice of content creates lasting impressions that evoke strong emotions. What began as a means of keeping a record of self-expression has evolved into this shared visual diary.

“Sitting and waiting for the impulse, an intuitive movement of the hand, let the mystery be. No reason to analyze – just let it happen. That is where art allows me to reside.”

6 questions with Roman Zalac

We ask our emerging artists 6 questions to uncover what drives their work, practice, and creativity.

What themes or questions do you find recurring in your work?

Longing is a common theme in my paintings. Some of my works have a higher dose of it than others, but longing is a familiar theme and muse to my art. I also tend to reach beyond the veil, because I intuitively know that there is more, much more.

Can you describe a pivotal moment in your journey as an artist?

My wife gave me a book, The Artist’s Way, because she knew something about me that I had forgotten. While I was going through the book, the floodgates opened, and then I remembered – I knew I was a painter.

What materials or processes are most important in your practice - and why?

I draw first – graphite and paper. I leave those drawings and don’t look at them for a while. I then go back and review all the drawings I have. I take time to see which one wants to become a painting. When one speaks to me, I transfer it to a canvas or wood board, and I begin the painting process. I reach a certain point when I walk away from each painting. I just let it be until it speaks to me again. The process is time-consuming, but this is how it has evolved over the years.

How do you want people to feel when they experience your work?

I want my canvases to burn a hole in the wall where they hang — this is how I thought when I was younger. I want the viewer to be drawn into conversation with my pieces; they have much to say.

What does a typical day in your studio look like?

I sit down and I look at my canvases, and the ones that speak to me that day are the ones I work on. Time disappears, and I lose myself in the process. That is where I want to be.

What dreams or hopes do you have for your artistic journey?

My dream is to paint until I physically can no longer. I hope that my art softens the hearts of its viewers.