Exhibitions, Stories
Exclusive Interview with Renowned Slovenian Contemporary Artist Michael Gregorjev Murn | Part 1
Renowned Slovenian contemporary artist Michael Gregorjev Murn takes us on a journey through his vibrant career in this exclusive interview. Growing up in the small village of Reteče near Škofja Loka, Murn was surrounded by a family rich in artistic talent, fostering his early creative spirit. His passion for art and entrepreneurship ignited at the age of ten, setting the stage for a lifetime of innovation.
Murn discusses his evolving art style, blending kitsch, style, and beauty, and employing diverse materials from acrylic paint to retro items. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his journey, the significant events shaping his development, and his commitment to supporting other artists. As Michael prepares for his solo show at Miart Gallery London, he invites viewers to engage deeply with the emotions and stories in his work.
Can you tell our readers about your childhood, family, and the environment you grew up in? Were you an artistic child?
I grew up in Reteče, a small village near Škofja Loka in Slovenia, where my family was connected to the arts. My father was a skilled graphic designer and photographer, while my mother played piano and designed thoughtful gifts. My grandparents also had artistic talents, from pottery to drawing. This creative environment naturally influenced me. From an early age, I was very artistic and spent numerous hours in my atelier (located in the basement of our family home) working on various art projects.
What inspired you to become an artist?
I’ve always been passionate about the future and the inspiring power of art. I believe in positivity and hard work as keys to success. Since age 10, I’ve committed to art and entrepreneurship, tackling challenges with enthusiasm. Art has been my medium for self-expression and connection, allowing me to support other artists and foster collaborations from a young age.
How would you describe your art style, and how long did it take you to master it?
My art style is difficult to pin down as it constantly evolves with each new project. I’m committed to challenging norms and pushing boundaries, which is reflected in my work that blends kitsch, style, and beauty to create thought-provoking and emotionally resonant pieces. While I continually refine and develop my style through experimentation with new media, colour palettes, and motifs, it’s hard to predict exactly what form my next collection will take—whether it be acrylic paintings, ready-made art, collages, or digital graphics. This fluid approach keeps my work dynamic and perpetually fresh.
What materials do you use, and how long does it take for you to create an artwork on average?
In my artwork, I employ a variety of materials, including acrylic paint, gold leaf, and various tools for techniques such as dripping and layering. I also enjoy incorporating retro items into ready-made art to bridge historical events with contemporary values. It’s difficult to determine an average timeframe because my process can vary so much—some of my sketches and drawings are made impulsively, perhaps while laying on a beach, while more substantial projects require extensive planning and collaboration. For instance, I’ve been working on a huge 16-meter high installation with a team, and it has already been in progress for two years.
How do you decide what size an artwork will be, and what is the typical size of your art?
When deciding on the size of my artwork, I consider the concept, the level of detail required, and the display location. Often, the space for a commission or exhibition influences the size. I typically create medium to large pieces to fully capture my artistic vision, but I’m adaptable and can adjust the size to fit the project’s requirements.
Was it difficult to become a full-time artist, and what risks, challenges, or setbacks did you have to face in your art career?
Becoming a full-time artist was tough, mainly because I had to find a way to make a living from my art while dealing with rejections and financial ups and downs. Balancing the creative and business sides of my work added to the challenge. Despite these hurdles, pushing through them has been fulfilling, and each setback has spurred my growth.
Were there any significant events during your art career that influenced your artistic development?
Throughout my career, several key events have significantly influenced my artistic development. Participating in over 40 solo and 100 group exhibitions worldwide has been particularly impactful. These opportunities have allowed me to present my work to varied audiences and gain valuable feedback, which has been instrumental in refining my approach and technique. The latest significant milestone in my journey is undoubtedly the solo show I am having at Miart Gallery in London, which opens on May 10th and will run until June 6th. This exhibition is a pivotal moment for me, as it provides a platform to showcase my latest works and engage with both new and familiar audiences.
How long did it take you to achieve financial success as an artist, and what lessons did you learn along the way?
Achieving financial success as an artist required time and perseverance. I diversified my artistic projects, sharpened my business skills, built solid relationships, and stayed current with trends. Continuous learning and development were essential for my growth. Overall, it took talent, hard work, resilience, and a strategic approach to business and marketing.
How do you come up with innovative art ideas?
Innovation in my art comes from my varied experiences, insights into society and human emotions, and observations. I draw inspiration from literature, music, nature, and daily life. Experimenting with different mediums and techniques helps me discover new artistic possibilities and push creative boundaries. Collaborating with other artists and professionals also brings in fresh perspectives and ideas.
Part 2 is Coming Soon!
Interview organized by AAMI Corporation. The World Art News (WAN) is not liable for the content of this publication. All statements and views expressed herein are opinions only. Act at your own risk. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. © The World Art News
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