B.D. Graft
Artwork’s Title: White on Blue, 2019
Materials Used: Acrylic and industrial marker on canvas panel
Studio Based: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
Art is therapeutic for me. Making it cheers me up and I wish to transfer that feeling to the observer. Most of my artworks are quick and on the spot. I’m quite an impatient person and don’t like spending hours on the same thing. It’s often a process of fast, free expression.
How would you define your work in a few words (ideally in 3 words)?
Simple, vibrant, imperfect.
Would you use another three different words to describe the ‘White On Blue’ painting?
Gestural, raw, crowded.
How did you come up with this painting idea? Is there any story behind this painting?
I like finding new ways of expressing the same thing/idea. I’ve been painting potted plant patterns for a while now, and have been experimenting with more gestural techniques.
What colour is used the most in this painting?
The background is ultramarine blue; one of my favourite colours to use in my art. It’s a very deep, vibrant colour that comes pretty close to Yves Klein blue.
What would be the best way to exhibit your work?
Inside the MoMA (ha!).
Can you mention any artists you, lately or generally, take inspiration from?
Helen Frankenthaler, Willem de Kooning, Richard Diebenkorn, Cy Twombly, Ellsworth Kelly, Henri Matisse, Jean Arp, Landon Metz, Milton Avery, Tal R, A.R. Penck.
How do you know when this painting was finished?
When there’s no more space left for the white marker to occupy.
What about the place where you work? What’s your studio space look like?
My studio consists of two rooms; one for painting and framing, the other for drawing and working behind a desk, etc. There’s a little kitchen and a toilet, so I can spend all day there, which is nice.
Is there any particular message that you wish your viewers can take from this painting?
Have fun.
What does your mum think about your art?
She loves a lot of it (the more colour the better), and isn’t sure about some of it; usually the darker stuff. It’s nice that she’s honest. She’s very supportive though, and collects all the magazines, etc, that I’m featured in.
Which exhibition did you visit last?
My favourite museum in Amsterdam is the Stedelijk, and they recently had a great exhibition called “Colorful Japan”, which was posthumous tribute to Japanese graphic designer Shigeru Watano. It featured tons of beautiful Japanese posters.
Which are your plans for the near future?
To keep getting better and evolve, and work on fun projects that I’m passionate about.
Additional Paintings:
© All images are courtesy of the artist