Arunas Zilys
Arunas Zilys is a distinguished Lithuanian painter whose works invite viewers into refined, dreamlike worlds where symbolism, theater, and timeless beauty intertwine. Zilys was classically trained at the National M.K. Ciurlionis School of Arts and the Vilnius Academy of Arts. Since 1976, his paintings have captivated audiences across Europe, Asia, and the United States, and are held in major collections including the M.K. Ciurlionis National Museum of Art and the World Bank in Washington, D.C.
Zilys’ artistic language is unmistakable. Stepping away from the traditional colorist school that dominates Lithuanian painting, he has forged a distinct path—one defined by elegance, stylization, and a deliberate aesthetic distance. His compositions feature fantastical, genderless figures that echo ancient civilizations, modern mythologies, and theatrical set designs. Though seemingly serene at first glance, his work reveals deeper layers of cultural memory and symbolism upon closer inspection.
Executed with intricate brushwork and vibrant, shimmering color, Zilys’ canvases carry the weight of history while remaining ethereal and light. His paintings have not only graced prestigious galleries from Paris to Beijing but have also been featured in over 20 international films and television series, including Friends, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The X-Files, and Nurse Betty.
Exhibitions
- 2019 – Group Exhibition; "Frogman Art", "China World Tower" Gallery, Beijing, China
- 2019 – Group Exhibition; "Art Beijing 2019", Beijing, China
- 2018 – Group Exhibition; "Art Beijing 2018", Beijing, China
- 2015 – Solo Exhibition; "Artifacts" Gallery, Cambria, USA
- 2014 – Solo Exhibition; "Pilies" Gallery, Vilnius, Lithuania
- 2014 – Mostra D’Arte; Venice, Italy
- 2013 – Solo Exhibition; "Esteban" Gallery, Paris, France
- 2008 – Solo Exhibition; "Esteban" Gallery, Paris, France
- 2001 – Solo Exhibition; "Artifacts" Gallery, Cambria, USA
- 2000 – Solo Exhibition; "BGH" Gallery, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, USA
- 1999 – Solo Exhibition; "BGH" Gallery, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, USA
- 1998 – Solo Exhibition; "Vartai" Gallery, Vilnius, Lithuania
- 1996 – Solo Exhibition; Arnstadt, Germany
- 1996 – Solo Exhibition; Worpswede, Germany
- 1994 – Mostra D’Arte Pittori Della, Venice, Italy
- 1989 – Chicago International New Art Form Exposition; Chicago, USA
