Michael Slusakowicz works predominately in painting, drawing, performance and video, often using different mediums to express his subject matter. In his practice, he aims to create images that communicate with the viewer in a narrative way. Very often, the subject of his work is hidden or takes place aside, unnoticed at first glance. He tends to penetrate the veiled side of our society in search of the pure core of humanity with both, its dark and bright side, while his subject matter has something to do with an attempt to capture a moment in time in a similar manner to the movie still.In his practise as an artist, he explores many different techniques and styles without limiting himself to one particular discipline. Some of his works take form of abstract compositions, some are more figurative, but what they have in common is a strong emphasis on colour and texture with particular interest in generating an intimate atmosphere. Bold colours and texture are essential part of his visual language.
1) Which art movement do you consider most influential on your practice?
Magic Realism, Fauvism and Post-Impressionism.
2) Where do you go and when to make your best art?
I get a lot of inspiration from nature and travel.
3) How do you describe your 'creative process'?
Sometimes I have a clear image of what I would like to paint, sometimes I create a digital collage which I later transfer onto the canvas. Then I choose the colour palette. I work a lot with words or stories, and they inspire me a lot.
4) Which artist, living or deceased, is the greatest inspiration to you?
Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Neo Rauch, Victor Man, Johannes Vermeer, Diego Velázquez.
5) If you weren't an artist, what would you do?
I would become an interior designer or an astronaut. I love cosmos!
6) What do you listen to for inspiration?
Jazz, instrumental, classical, sounds of nature.
7) If you could own one artwork, and money was no object, which piece would you acquire?
Any painting by Henri Rousseau!
8) If your dream museum or collection owner came calling, which would it be?
Gosh. I never thought about it before. Perhaps Tate or MoMA? I don’t know?
9) What is your key piece of advice for artists embarking on a fine art or creative degree today?
Whatever you do, do it for yourself! Don’t try to please critics and audience alike. And have fun! Art should always be fun!
10) What is your favorite book of all time (fiction or non fiction)?
I haven’t got a favourite one.
11) If you could hang or place your artwork in one non traditional art setting, where would that be?
Somewhere hidden from view. How romantic!
12) What was the biggest lesson your university course or time studying taught you?
That criticsm from peers is a blessing.
13) And finally, if we were to fast forward 10 years, where would we find you?
Living and painting in Barcelona.
Learn more about Michael and discover his collection of paintings.
