Jakub Kotas – fotograf

Czech Republic native Jakub Kotas came to Colorado about six years ago, after finishing his studies, and an alternative to serving in the army – working as a cook at a home for seniors.

He currently lives in Edwards with his wife, whom he met here, yet is also a Czech Republic native, and young daughter. He recently opened a gallery in the Rainbow Court on Frisco Main Street.

He said his photography began in his youth when he shared a darkroom with his father. “I used to take a lot of photographs back in the Czech Republic,” Kotas said. He switched over to digital only about two years ago. Kotas described his wilderness photography as a way of taking something back from a hike into the woods, a souvenir that would refresh the memory. The Jakub Lotus Wilderness Photo Gallery is a little difficult to find by the signs – it’s located within a friend’s outdoor gear repair shop in the court.

What are your dreams/what would you like to do with your art?
To make this planet a better place to be, so our children will not have to ask: Hey you, what were the forests like? … I will be glad to dedicate 35 percent of the sale to the state parks and USDA for their needs and hopefully become even “greener.” Right now, I do not know many people around to ask for advice, but everyone is welcome to contact me with an idea at JakubKotas@hotmail.com.

What does art give you/why do you do it?
Freedom.

What do you try to convey through your art?
Although, I do not feel that art needs to convey, anything, I try to cure with art.

What is/has been your biggest challenge, and how do/did you deal with it?
Meeting Viktor Skrebneski at his studio in Chicago. He photographed Marilyn Monroe, Andy Warhol and David Bowie. Dennis Hopper is a friend of his and it was tough to imagine Viktor and Jakub sitting at the same table. I went on a boat trip on the river and took probably 150 pictures of the Chicago architecture, thinking that Andy would do the same thing. That keeps me going.

What are you most proud of regarding your art (and/or greatest accomplishment)?
Tears.

How do you stay fresh/motivated?
I stay motivated looking to the older people’s eyes.
What do you do when you’re not making art?
Making real art.