Gawie Joubert is known for his ethereal ink and charcoal drawings, that evolve around complex connections between humans and nature. His current work can broadly be described as an experimental process, where he masterfully surrenders control to allow his medium to lay the foundation for his art-making. Fueled by his belief that humans are dependent on nature for psychological and physical well-being, Joubert creates artworks mostly depicting morphed figures and greenery. These artworks simultaneously explore the artists own interest in the fluidity of identity.
1) Which art movement do you consider most influential on your practice?
Definitely Surrealism. My work has a dreamlike quality to it.
2) Where do you go and when to make your best art?
I usually feel inspired and motivated after I spend time in nature. Studying plants during hikes and taking lots of reference images.
3) How do you describe your 'creative process'?
It usually starts with an idea that gets either jotted or drawn onto paper (I always carry a small notebook with me) This then sparks the research component and then putting up a blank piece of paper on the wall (this is usually daunting until I start drawing) From here the drawing becomes a meditative state where I have to finish the artwork before moving on to the next one.
4) Which artist, living or deceased, is the greatest inspiration to you?
I've always had an obsession with the line work of Egon Schiele. There's something in his work that's so captivating.
5) If you weren't an artist, what would you do?
I would probably be a botanist.
6) What do you listen to for inspiration?
I usually listen to Fever Ray, The Knife, Sufjan Stevens, Crooked Colours, Tycho, Ásgeir, WhoMadeWho, Son Lux, Lorn, Labyrinth Ear, Grimes, Goat and many more. Usually, I listen to audiobooks when working. These are great for long periods of sitting and grafting.
7) If you could own one artwork, and money was no object, which piece would you acquire?
Any works from South African artist Mary Sibande or Wim Botha will make me happy.
8) If your dream museum or collection owner came calling, which would it be?
MoMa
9) What is your key piece of advice for artists embarking on a fine art or creative degree today?
Stop comparing yourself to other artists.
10) What is your favourite book of all time (fiction or non-fiction)?
Hands down Stephen King's IT.
11) If you could hang or place your artwork in one non-traditional art setting, where would that be?
I'd like to place my artworks in a forest or along a hiking trail.
12) What was the biggest lesson your university course or time studying taught you?
Not to take life to seriously and have fun and it shows in your work.
13) And finally, if we were to fast forward 10 years, where would we find you?
Living in Cape Town or Europe working 2 to 3 international shows in advance.
