‘Untitled no2’ – 2010
“Sometimes I think it is a very lazy way of working, abdicating responsibility. But then I like the feeling of being guided.”
Every media has its own approach to the processes that shape it. What is yours?
It is quite similar to photography where images can be endlessly captured. In the end the final work is the result of a process of elimination. My art on computers follows the same mode of multiple creations and then exclusions.
Are your initial sketches also done on a computer?
I don’t sketch, paint or draw anymore. Mostly because I found I could do only things I already knew. I find chance produces far more surprising results. It is an illusion to think that I can maintain control. I can make decisions about the very small things and that is about it. Sometimes I think it is a very lazy way of working, abdicating responsibility. But then I like the feeling of being guided. And if it doesn’t turn out well, I can fool myself that it’s not my fault.
Do you start with a blank canvas?
I’d say my work is fundamentally reactive not proactive. I’ve never started with an empty canvas. Even as a prequel to ideas I always seem to need something to get me started. Then my ineptness and naivety take over and I’m well on my way. I can’t be incompetent with a blank screen.
Is Art entertainment?
That is probably not the best question to ask, I don’t think the answer leads anywhere. It’s similar to asking; is food entertainment? The answer is either yes, it could be or no it isn’t. And yet food is an essential to survival. So both answers really add nothing to our knowledge of nutrition.
Perhaps the real point to the question is; is Art important? This is a better subject.
But I’ve always thought that just asking questions is intellectual entertainment. At some point there is a need to stop asking and actively seek answers that lead somewhere. Hopefully anywhere, because I find most answers can be quite shy.