Fortune Hunter

Artwork’s Title: Reinforcement

Materials Used: Oil on wood panel

Studio Based: Stuttgart, Germany

Can you tell us about the process of making your work?

I normally make a reference drawing for the final painting. In this case, however, I had a very good idea of how the painting should look like and worked directly on the actual piece. I first sketched the geometric background, which works as a sort of stage and at the same time gives a three-dimensional feel. To help me come up with the final size and composition of the different elements in the painting, I used paper cut-outs of the various shapes in different sizes, which I could easily arrange and combine. The next step was to make the final sketch and a rough under painting with acrylic paint. To get the final texture and color, I applied some layers of oil paint.

How would you define your work in a few words (ideally in 3 words)?

Funny, surreal, hidden.

Would you use another three different words to describe the “Reinforcement” painting?

Supportive, charitable, essential.

How did you come up with this painting idea? Is there any story behind this painting?

One day I had the idea to incorporate an old-fashioned piggy bank in a painting. At the time we were experiencing the first restrictions due to Coronavirus and I remember thinking of the financial uncertainty that it had suddenly introduced in our lives. So I think I subconsciously thought about the piggy bank as a symbolic life saver. The idea then quickly evolved into something beyond a financial meaning.

What colour is used the most in this painting?

Either pink/orange or grey.

What would be the best way to exhibit your work?

Since this piece is part of a series of small oil paintings (40 x 30 cm), I think all these small artworks would particularly fit well together in a large white space, installed at large distances from each another.

Can you mention any artists you, lately or generally, take inspiration from?

Lately, I could say Lola Gil, Lisa King, Telmo Miel and Cathrin Hoffman, to name a few.

How do you know when this painting was finished?

The mouth was not part of my original idea. When I decided to incorporate it as a last detail in the painting, I knew that the piece was finished.

What about the place where you work? What’s your studio space look like?

My studio is a tiny room with a large window at an old building (to be demolished in some years) that accommodates all kinds of creatives, including musicians, graphic designers, visual artists, etc. Due to limited space, I have installed the majority of my finished pieces on the wall, so that it looks like a tiny, personal exhibition. My easel and workspace are somewhere around the window and my painting material is spread throughout the little studio area. I also keep my electric guitar near my working desk, which I can always play after a good (or bad) painting session.

Is there any particular message that you wish your viewers can take from this painting?

I think of the piggy bank as a symbol of relief and support amid the social and financial challenges that this pandemic has put on most individuals. Even a small gesture or a helping hand can have a massive impact on a person in need these days.

What does your mum think about your art?

I think she’s my biggest fan 😀

Which exhibition did you visit last? 

“Taxi, Taco, Telmex” by Alejandro Reyes and Kai Fischer at the Galerie Kernweine in Stuttgart.

Which are your plans for the near future?

I am planning to do a mural here in Stuttgart and I also will be exhibiting some pieces at an art fair in Frankfurt in November, if the fair does not get cancelled due COVID-19, that is.

Additional Paintings

©All images are courtesy of the artist

http://fortunehunter.se

@fortunehunterart