Soulful and Spiritual Reality

Stepanka Simlova never wanted to change reality. And virtual reality was never her intention. Even if she were capable of creating perfect illusion from technology she would not make use of it. Her interference must be visible. Although the result seemingly approaches that of illusion and her detailed computer work is evident, there is always something a bit off, something different from what should be. The total work has a different perspective, an artlessly inserted element or forgotten detail and the intentional mistake is part of her expression. In combination with the represented scene it can look like an illustration from a manifesto of avant-garde ideology, which is so rare nowadays. She first makes scenes by repeating several landscape motifs. The imprints of elements in rows or in mirror opposition, though very evident, feel natural. When we look at them we desire them rather than find their existence permissible. Her wish to create an altruist city reminds us even more of metropolitan panoramas, whose neon lights address inhabitants with placid appeals and flashes of seemingly illogical acts. We have always longed for something different. To change the world?

Ivan Mecl, Umělec magazine, 3/2003