Tag Archives: women

BY MARK ANDERSON

Joanna Li, a Taiwanese artist born in Taipei in 1997, is captivating the art world with her ability to seamlessly blend natural and urban elements into emotionally powerful narratives. Now based in London, where she moved seven years ago, Joanna graduated from the prestigious University of the Arts London. Her artistic journey spans from photography to watercolor painting, continuously pushing boundaries and breaking new ground.

Reflecting on her time in London, Joanna recalls her early days, describing how the unfamiliarity of a new city left her feeling lost and disconnected. “When I first arrived in London, I was overwhelmed by a sense of loneliness on my first day at school. But knowing my parents fully supported my dream kept me going,” she said. Her determination, fueled by a deep love for art, carried her through, leading her to develop her own distinctive style. Guided by the inspiration of her teachers and the cultural richness of the city, she began to channel her innermost emotions through her creations.

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Inspiration and Cultural Influence

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Joanna’s creative process is deeply rooted in the everyday moments that surround her. Whether it’s the bustling streets of London or the quiet details of life, she finds inspiration everywhere. Her work transcends mere visual beauty, as each piece resonates on an emotional level, offering more than just an aesthetic experience. “I have always believed that art is a form of communication that transcends cultures and languages,” Joanna reflects. This belief has become the foundation of her work, which strives to connect with viewers on a deeper, more emotional plane.

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The Emotional Blend in Photography

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In her photography, Joanna Li has mastered the use of contrast and composition as key tools for emotional storytelling. “Contrast and composition speak their own language,” she explains. “They reveal the story and atmosphere behind each photo.” Her work goes beyond the surface, drawing viewers into a world of feeling, where colors and textures communicate the underlying emotions of each scene.

One of her standout pieces, ‘The Present Moment’, exemplifies this. Displayed at The Holy Art Gallery in London, the photograph employs unique exposure and double-layered effects, creating a dreamlike quality that invites the viewer to explore layers of time, memory, and emotion.

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Watercolor Paintings: Color as a Language

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Beyond photography, Joanna’s emotional expression extends into painting. In her watercolor work ‘Crescendo’, she uses architecture as her central subject, capturing the essence of public spaces with fluid lines and vibrant colors. Her ability to convey both emotional and visual complexity speaks to her mastery of form and color, which she uses to create not only aesthetically pleasing pieces but also deeply emotional experiences. Each brushstroke is infused with meaning, inviting viewers to feel as much as they see.

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International Recognition and Future Endeavors

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Joanna’s art has garnered attention on a global scale. She has participated in group exhibitions across Brazil, London, and the United States, winning multiple art awards along the way. Her work has been celebrated in media outlets around the world, and she remains committed to her artistic evolution. “Art is a road with no end. I hope to find my own artistic language through continuous exploration and experimentation,” she said, emphasizing her dedication to innovation.

Looking ahead, Joanna has ambitious plans for the future. Her new series, ‘Nature and People’, explores the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world, a theme that resonates deeply with her. She hopes this body of work will inspire greater appreciation for nature and its connection to humanity.

Additionally, Joanna is planning a global touring exhibition in the coming years, allowing her to reach new audiences and continue to share her vision. Through her work, she aims to spread positive energy, connecting with viewers across cultural and linguistic barriers.

Joanna Li’s artistic journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and a deep understanding of emotion. Whether through the lens of a camera or the strokes of a brush, her work speaks directly to the soul, leaving a lasting impression on those who encounter it.

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Also Read

“Reminiscence” by Joanna Li: A Captivating Short Video on Memory’s Maze

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Sponsored content. 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

The post Who is Joanna Li: A Journey of Emotional Expression Through Art appeared first on World Art News.

BY ALBERT CHEN

At Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr’s Modern & Contemporary African and Middle Eastern Art sale in Paris on September 26, 2024, a striking abstract work by renowned Turkish artist Fahr El-Nissa Zeid sold for €152,800—more than three times its original estimate. The 1961 piece, Lever De Soleil, Ischia, was expected to fetch between €50,000 and €80,000 but surpassed expectations at an auction that totaled €488,000 across 74 lots.

Zeid, one of the first women to attend the Fine Arts Academy in Istanbul, later continued her studies in Paris under Roger Bissière at the Académie Ranson. Over her long career, she held numerous solo exhibitions in major cities such as London, Paris, New York, and throughout the Middle East. After the death of her husband, Prince Zeid bin Hussein of Iraq’s Hashemite royal family, she settled in Amman, where she continued to create groundbreaking work.

The auction notably spotlighted women artists from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with Noor Soussi, Head of the Modern & Contemporary Middle Eastern Art department, emphasizing the importance of representation. “Women artists from MENA and Africa have been historically underrepresented in the art market, so we were pleased to feature works by notable figures such as Fahr El-Nissa Zeid, Zeinab Abd El Hamid, and Rabab Nemr,” Soussi said.

Julie Mathon, Junior Specialist in Modern and Contemporary African Art at Bonhams, also praised the collaboration with the Menart international art fair in Paris, which celebrated the contributions of female artists from the region. Mathon noted the strong results for works by artists like Ouattara Watts and Abdoulaye Diarrassouba Aboudia.

Other notable sales at the event included Ouattara Watts’ acrylic pigment and collage work Pythagor and Thot, which sold for €66,440. Louay Kayyali’s oil painting Portrait of a Man fetched €28,160, while Abdoulaye Diarrassouba Aboudia’s untitled mixed media canvas achieved €25,600. Farhad Moshiri’s Control Room, an embroidery on black velvet, was sold for €23,040. Additionally, Rabab Nemr’s 1987 untitled oil on panel garnered €19,200, and Zeinab Abd El Hamid’s 1998 mixed media piece Cityscape reached €12,160.

This sale not only highlighted the strength of the market for works by women artists from the MENA region but also underscored growing interest in both modern and contemporary African and Middle Eastern art.

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Story submitted by Bonhams. 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

The post Turkish Female Artist Fahr El-Nissa Zeid’s Painting Sells for €152,800, Three Times the Estimate appeared first on World Art News.

In this third installment of our exclusive interview series with New Orleans ceramicist Aurora Daigle, we explore the intimate rituals and routines that fuel her creative process. From setting mindful intentions to connecting with nature, Aurora’s practice is a harmonious blend of spirituality, artistry, and personal growth.

She invites us into her world, where creating ceramics becomes a meditative and transformative experience. As she shares her passion for therapeutic clay sessions and sustainable practices, we gain insight into her evolving work and exciting future projects that promise to leave a lasting impact.

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PART 2: Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle

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Do you have any specific rituals or routines that you follow during the creative process? 

During my creative process, I have developed several rituals and routines that help me stay focused, inspired, and connected to my work:

Setting Intentions: Before I begin working, I take a moment to set an intention for my session. This could be a goal for the piece I’m working on or a broader intention related to my artistic growth and expression. 

Creating Sacred Space: I believe in the importance of creating a physical and mental space conducive to creativity. This might involve lighting a candle, playing soft music, or simply taking a few deep breaths to center myself. 

Connecting with Nature: Nature is a profound source of inspiration for me. I often start my creative sessions with a walk outdoors or by bringing natural elements into my workspace. This helps ground me and sparks ideas. 

Mindful Preparation: Before I touch clay or engage in any artistic activity, I prepare my materials mindfully. This includes organizing my tools, sponging down my work table, and ensuring I have everything I need within reach to minimize distractions. 

Embracing Fluidity: While I may have a rough idea of what I want to create, I also embrace spontaneity and allow the clay to guide me. This flexibility in approach often leads to unexpected and rewarding artistic discoveries. 

Reflection and Integration: At the end of each creative session, I take time to reflect on my progress and experiences. I journal about any insights or challenges encountered, which helps me integrate my artistic process into my personal growth journey. 

These rituals and routines not only enhance my creative flow but also deepen my connection to the transformative power of art. They are integral to my practice as an artist and contribute to the meaning I find in creating ceramics and engaging in therapeutic art sessions. 

What future projects or collaborations are you excited about, and how do you see your work evolving in the coming years? 

I’m excited about several future projects and collaborations that are on the horizon: 

Exploring Wild Clay: I am eager to delve deeper into working with the wild clay. This exploration involves learning to process and utilize the material, which aligns perfectly with my commitment to using natural and found materials in my ceramics. As well as exploring different firing techniques, particularly wood firing. 

Therapeutic Clay Sessions: As an art therapist and ceramic artist, I am passionate about integrating therapeutic clay sessions or “clay ceremonies” into my practice. These sessions provide a supportive environment for individuals to experience healing and connection through art. I envision expanding these sessions to reach more diverse communities and exploring how clay can be a medium for personal growth and community building. 

Collaborative Projects: I look forward to collaborating with other artists, therapists, and community organizers who share a passion for using art as a tool for healing and social change. Whether through joint exhibitions, workshops, or community-based art initiatives, I see collaboration as a powerful way to amplify the impact of our creative endeavors. 

Travel and Cultural Exploration: I am excited about opportunities to travel to new places and immerse myself in different cultural landscapes. I believe exposure to diverse perspectives and artistic traditions will enrich my own artistic practice and broaden my understanding of the world. 

Looking ahead, I see my work evolving in several ways: 

Deeper Integration of Art and Therapy: I aim to further integrate my skills as an art therapist with my ceramic practice, creating more intentional and impactful therapeutic art experiences for individuals and groups. 

Sustainability and Ethical Practices: I am committed to exploring sustainable practices in ceramics, including sourcing materials responsibly and minimizing environmental impact. This commitment extends to fostering ethical collaborations and supporting communities through my work. 

Exploration of Narrative and Mythology: I am interested in exploring themes of narrative and mythology in my ceramic work, particularly narratives that celebrate resilience, cultural heritage, and the natural world. I hope to create pieces that tell stories and evoke emotional connections with viewers. I will be working on my larger body of work and plan to have a solo exhibition in December. 

Overall, I see my work evolving into a deeper exploration of art’s role in healing, community building, and environmental stewardship. I am excited about the possibilities ahead and look forward to continuing to grow as an artist and advocate for the transformative power of creativity.

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Also Read

The Healing Power of Art: Bridging Mysticism, Science, and Real-Life

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Sponsored content. Interview organized by Chevy Wolf. 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

The post Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle | Part 3 appeared first on World Art News.

New York-based photographer Evelyn Freja has captivated audiences with her emotive and intimate approach to capturing the world through her lens. From her early days exploring photography on her family’s rural farm to the moments of creative awakening in far-flung places like New Zealand, Evelyn has carved out a unique path in the world of visual storytelling. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her artistic journey, the personal experiences that have shaped her, and the creative process behind her evocative imagery.

Can you tell our readers about your childhood, family, and the environment you grew up in? Were you drawn to art as a child?

I was born to a British mother and a father in the US Air Force, spending my childhood between growing up on my rural family farm and summers spent visiting my grandparents in a remote village in England. Much of my early years were spent in solitude and art was something I discovered naturally as a way to occupy myself. I was lucky because my parents always encouraged me to spend time in art and nature.

What inspired you to become a photographer?

I spent a year living in a small town in New Zealand when I was in my last year of high school. Teenage years are such a tender part of life, when you are just on the cusp of adulthood and figuring out who you are and what you want to say to the world. I was 17 years old, in a foreign land and immersed in a different culture. It was the first time in my life where all I wanted to do was take photos.

What was the first photograph you took that made you realize photography was your passion?

During high school, I began taking self portraits, sometimes around my family farm, and sometimes upstairs in my bedroom, like this one, with my cat Henry. During this time, there was a shift in interest, from creating self portraits for myself, to creating art for myself.

Do you consider yourself an artist, and what role does creativity play in your photography?

It took me a long time to consider myself an artist but now it is a very large part of my identity. When I first started photographing, I was embarrassed to be seen trying to make things out of nothing. Now, I simply don’t care as much as I did when I was younger. I focus on making art for myself. Creativity is everything to me. Inspiration can strike from listening to a certain album or making a cup of coffee, creativity is all around us.

How long did it take you to master the camera, and was it a challenging process?

Taking photos is equal parts analytical and creative. There is the mathematics of exposing a photo right and balancing the aperture and shutter speed with the components of the subject matter and frame. At times, it is very difficult and there are shoots I have to this day where I need to force myself to slow down and stop. To think and be deliberate.

What cameras and equipment do you use in your work?

I’ve switched from Sony, to Canon, to Fuji, to Nikon which is what I currently use. I’m happiest with Nikon, but who knows, that could change.

What role does post-processing play in your work, and how do you approach editing your photos?

Colors and tones are very important to me. I try to be deliberate with both before, during, and after photographing.

How do you come up with innovative photography ideas?

Ideas come to me by way of books, music, tv shows– everything outside of photography, for me, ends up relating back to photography and inspiring me in one way or another.

What is your favorite subject to photograph, and why?

There is so much joy in photographing people. It is a privilege to be able to photograph someone from different walks of life, perhaps working in a different industry, where I am able to drop in and learn something new and connect with someone different from me.

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Part 2 is Coming Soon!

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Also Read

Exclusive Interview with Cindy Shaoul – Abstract Impressionist Artist from New York

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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

The post Behind the Lens: Exclusive Interview with New York Photographer Evelyn Freja | Part 1 appeared first on World Art News.

By Lusya Yangirova | Art Historian and Critic

Sexual harassment in the workplace has become one of the most discussed issues in recent years. Women worldwide have found the courage to step forward and share their experiences. This act has been particularly important for those in societies where victim-blaming is the norm in cases of abuse. This is especially true in post-Soviet countries, where sex and sexuality were taboo topics, and sexual abuse was often seen as something for which only the victim was responsible.

Over the past few years, movements like #MeToo have exposed the uncomfortable reality of harassment in women’s professional lives. Millions of women have bravely shared their hidden traumas with the public, inspiring others to speak out.

Today, numerous foundations, activists, and supportive individuals are working to highlight these issues and assist those traumatized by such abuse. Mihail Rakov, a playwright and producer, is among those committed to creating safe work environments. This passion led him to produce the audio drama “The Call.”

For years, Rakov gathered stories shared by friends and those he encountered in the media. He wanted to create a play that could reach a wide audience. However, he recognized that producing a show like “The Morning Show” in Russia would be impossible.

In Russia, workplace sexual harassment is mostly covered by social media and a few foundations, not by state-funded TV channels. This realization brought him to the Tineodna Foundation, whose mission is to support women in difficult situations.

The Tineodna Foundation created a special webpage that serves as an online version of a theater stage, with an immersive twist. The set design features an image of a woman speaking on the phone, while the audio provides the audience with partial information about the plot. In this monologue, Rakov intentionally leaves space for the audience to imagine the words spoken on the other end of the line.

This creates an additional dimension where the abuser exists, his silence evoking the presence of a lurking monster, haunting the defenseless woman. The atmosphere of horror is palpable because no one should ever have to endure such a conversation. Rakov’s play has become a safe space for women seeking help, delivering a powerful message: no CEO should abuse their employees.

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UNBREAKABLE: Surviving Assault, Drugs & Prison – Exclusive Interview with Elizabeth Mikotowicz

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Story submitted by Irina Evseenko. 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

The post Breaking the Silence: Mihail Rakov’s Audio Drama ‘The Call’ Confronts Workplace Sexual Harassment in Russia and Post-Soviet Countries | VIDEO appeared first on World Art News.

In the second part of our exclusive interview with New Orleans ceramicist Aurora Daigle, we delve deeper into her creative process and the inspiration behind her work. Aurora opens up about the delicate balance she maintains between commercial projects and personal experimentation, sharing insights into her collaborations, including a meaningful partnership with the Swedish brand A Day’s March.

Through her unique blend of traditional techniques and natural materials, Aurora’s ceramics not only reflect her artistic philosophy but also embody her mission to restore connections between self, others, and the earth. Join us as we explore the artistry and intentionality that define Aurora’s practice.

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PART 1: Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle

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How do you balance commercial projects with personal, more experimental ones?

I determine which projects align most closely with my artistic vision, career goals, and financial needs. I develop a schedule or timeline that allows me to dedicate time to both commercial work and my personal projects. I have found that it is very important to advocate for myself as an artist by clearly communicating my boundaries, timelines, deliverables, and expectations for each project with clients or collaborators.

It’s important to ensure they understand my availability and commitment to maintaining artistic integrity. Commercial projects and collaborations are exciting because they have allowed me the opportunity to be experimental and learn a lot through the integration of new techniques, ideas, or themes, which can fuel inspiration and enrich both spheres of my creative process. I enjoy remaining adaptable to changes and building a diverse portfolio that reflects my unique artistic voice.

Can you share the story behind your collaboration with A Day’s March? How did this partnership come about?

I feel incredibly fortunate in this life, surrounded by loving friends and family. The collaboration with A Day’s March was born from a shared vision with a dear friend. We began hosting dinners with the intention of fostering community and deepening connections.

Our goal was to create a space where people could gather intentionally around handmade food served on handcrafted ceramic plates and cups, forging bonds through shared meals in a beautiful setting.

Chevy Wolf, my biggest supporter and closest friend, played a pivotal role in making this vision a reality. His enthusiasm and belief in our idea helped bring our collaboration with A Day’s March to fruition.

How do you integrate both your personal style and the brand’s identity into your custom plate designs for A Day’s March?

Collaboration and cooperation are skills that many people aren’t open to accepting, but I believe beautiful things are birthed out of that kind of spontaneity and meeting; it requires good communication and flexibility.

You’ve worked with various printmaking and painting processes. How do these techniques complement your ceramic work, and do you ever combine them?

I have started to experiment with relief carving on my ceramic pieces, and I am really happy with the results. There is endless learning and experimentation within the world of ceramics, and I love learning and exploration, so I will never get bored. I am a continuous life-long learner.

Your practice often involves natural and found materials. How do these elements influence your ceramic work, and were they incorporated into the custom plates?

Natural and found objects play a significant role in shaping my ceramic creations. Working with natural materials is fundamental to my artistic process as it connects me deeply to the earth. I find inspiration in the textures and forms of natural elements, often mirroring them in my ceramic pieces. My discoveries in nature awe and influence me profoundly.

When I considered the collaboration with the brand and designing the plates, my thoughts naturally gravitated towards Sweden’s landscapes, waterways, and cultural traditions. Researching Swedish folk designs immersed me in their depiction of the natural world’s beauty, echoing the experiences one might encounter in Sweden. Our experimentation with cobalt blue, a natural element with a rich history in ceramics and pottery, further enriched the thematic connection to natural elements within the custom plates.

You’ve studied both sculpture and creative art therapy. How do these disciplines inform your approach to ceramics and your artistic philosophy?

My art practice serves as a ritual of self-return—a way to nurture my mind’s garden, reconnect with ancestors and ancient customs, and embrace the unfolding of time with both simplicity and complexity. It’s about meeting each creation with gentleness, compassion, and authenticity, allowing them to evolve naturally. Working with clay feels akin to engaging in a dialogue with a living entity; through my fingertips, I sense its emergence and purpose, guiding its journey into being.

This approach mirrors the therapeutic relationships I foster in creative arts therapy. It has taught me grace in my artistic endeavors, silencing the internal perfectionist voice. I believe our art reflects our inner landscapes; my pieces transport me to a realm where I feel deeply interconnected with the natural world.

They echo a time of earth goddess religions, where ceremonies and artifacts held feminine power, now often overlooked or degraded. Through my work, I aim to revive and celebrate these lost narratives, offering a glimpse into a world both ancient and imagined, where women once lived in harmony with their essence, untouched by the oppression of their power.

Your work aims to restore relationships with self, others, and the earth. How does this mission manifest in your ceramics and other artworks?

Ceramics has been a profound connector for me within communities of women, and I envision this connection deepening as I embark on future artistic endeavors that allow for travel and exploration. Recently, I was gifted wild clay by two friends who collected it during their time spent in nature. These beautifully colored earth samples now entrust me with their potential, and I am eagerly preparing to process and incorporate them into my work.

Looking ahead, my plans include facilitating group therapeutic clay sessions or “clay ceremonies.” As both an art therapist and ceramic artist, these sessions offer a powerful opportunity for people to come together in community. They can experience the therapeutic benefits of working with clay in a safe and nurturing environment, fostering healing and connection.

In both my ceramics and therapeutic practice, the mission to restore relationships—whether with oneself, others, or the earth—guides my creative process and intentions. Each piece and session is a testament to the transformative power of art in fostering deeper understanding and connection within ourselves and our communities.

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Part 3 is Coming Soon!

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Interview organized by Chevy Wolf. 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

The post Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle | Part 2 appeared first on World Art News.

Aurora Daigle, born and raised in the enchanting city of New Orleans, is an interdisciplinary artist whose work captivates the essence of her vibrant upbringing. A graduate of the San Francisco Art Institute with a Bachelor’s in Fine Art, majoring in sculpture, and a Master’s degree in Creative Art Therapy from Pratt Institute, Aurora’s journey into artistry is both profound and inspiring. Her practice, which incorporates natural and found materials along with various printmaking and painting techniques such as relief on wood or linoleum, silkscreen, and acrylics, aims to restore and cultivate relationships with the self, others, and the earth.

In this exclusive interview, Aurora delves into her childhood experiences, the powerful influence of her family matriarchs, and how the rich culture and history of New Orleans continue to inspire her work as a ceramicist and artist.

Can you share details about your childhood, family, and the environment you grew up in? Were you an artistic child?

I am the youngest and only girl in my family, raised by an incredible mother who single-handedly nurtured my three older brothers and me. She instilled in me a deep sense of freedom to express myself fully, and her boundless love and vibrant spirit continue to inspire me. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, immersed me in a world of enchantment and mystique. The magic and spirits in its swamps captured my imagination early on. New Orleans is undeniably filled with creative expression, bursting with colors, sounds, charisma, and romance.

From a young age, I possessed an active imagination and a love for dance. I vividly remember writing letters to fairies who I believed dwelled around our home. Whether dancing barefoot under ancient live oaks, on broken sidewalks, or in the aisles of the Winn-Dixie grocery store, I inhabited every space with a sense of fluidity and artistry. Movement became my language, reflecting the softness and grace I absorbed from my surroundings and experiences.

What inspired your journey into becoming an artist?

My journey into artistry was deeply influenced by the women in my family—the matriarchs. My grandmother, my mother, and her sister were true artists in every sense. They infused beauty and meaning into everything they touched, whether it was through celebrations, food, quilts, or a simple conversation. Their care for each other and their families was an art form in itself, and it ignited my own artistic spark.

The power and beauty of Mother Nature have always captivated me. From wild tropical weather to lush flora and fauna and the rhythmic movements of bodies of water, I find inspiration in the intricate dance of life. I feel a profound connection to the natural world and strive for a reciprocal relationship with it through my work. Additionally, I’ve always been fascinated by the rituals, customs, and ceremonies that shape people’s lives and connect them to their communities, plants, animals, and the earth itself. These elements form the foundational inspiration for my artistic expression.

New Orleans is a city rich in culture and history. How does your upbringing in New Orleans influence your work as an artist and ceramicist?

New Orleans, a city steeped in rich culture and history, has profoundly shaped my journey as an artist and ceramicist. Growing up amidst its vibrant tapestry of diverse influences—from the echoes of ancient practices to the resilience of its people—I found myself drawn to the beauty found in imperfection and the depths of emotion.

The city’s complex history, like a patchwork quilt woven from the threads of diverse cultural legacies, inspired in me a deep curiosity about animism and reverence for ancient traditions. The palpable remnants of the old world around every corner fueled my fascination with sacred practices and the stories of those who lived in harmony with their environment, as well as those who boldly resisted and liberated.

My artistic expression often revolves around themes of rebirth, world-building, and the sacred feminine—a tribute to the resilience and wisdom that New Orleans embodies. Just as water holds memory, my connection to the winding river that cradled me remains intrinsic to my work. Creating vessels that hold water or letting water hold me is a continual homage to this connection.

Growing up in New Orleans also instilled in me an awareness of the potent influence of figures like voodoo priestesses—women who wielded knowledge, wisdom, and the power of herbs and word spells. Their legacy resonates in my art, where each piece becomes a portal to a world both ancient and newly imagined—a sanctuary where the denigrated artifacts of feminine power are honored and restored.

I was told by a friend recently that they can see expressions of New Orleans in my ceramic pieces in the colors, textures, tones, and shapes, the subtleties, and the details. I think that is unavoidable due to how much I’m endlessly in awe of the beauty that exists in this big little city.

In essence, my art is an ongoing narrative of homage and creation. New Orleans continues to be my muse and my guide in this journey of artistic exploration and discovery.

Reflecting on your art career, can you pinpoint any significant events that greatly influenced your artistic development?

In my twenties, I lived in the Bay Area and attended one of the oldest art schools on the West Coast, nestled in the vibrant city of San Francisco. This period was pivotal for my artistic growth. I discovered firsthand the profound impact of art on human existence and began to understand its critical role in our survival.

During this time, I encountered artists whose work resonated deeply with me and expanded my artistic horizons. Icons like Ana Mendieta, Wangechi Mutu, Simone Leigh, and Kara Walker not only fascinated me but also challenged and inspired me to explore new depths in my own creative journey. Their contributions left an indelible mark on my artistic perspective and continue to influence my work to this day.

How do you generate innovative ideas for your art?

I spend time alone. I observe and I listen.

As an artist, what challenges have you faced and overcome in your creative journey?

I have grappled with significant self-doubt, questioning whether I deserved a place in the art world and whether I had the capability to succeed. Logistically, finding dedicated space and time for my artistic practice has been an ongoing struggle. Balancing the demands of life with prioritizing my talent and desire for self-expression has been a challenge. However, as I’ve matured, I’ve come to realize that art is not just a passion but a vital tool for my survival, healing, and personal growth. This understanding has empowered me to confront these challenges head-on and continue to evolve as an artist.

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Part 2 is Coming Soon!

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Interview organized by Chevy Wolf. 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

The post Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle | Part 1 appeared first on World Art News.

BY MARK ANDERSON

Willem de Kooning, a luminary of Abstract Expressionism, not only revolutionized the art world with his bold, gestural paintings but also saw his works sell for astronomical sums, cementing his legacy as one of the most financially successful artists of the 20th century. His life, a whirlwind of artistic triumphs, personal dramas, and glamorous highs, reads like a compelling narrative of passion, struggle, and ultimate acclaim.

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Record-Breaking Sales

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De Kooning’s masterpieces have fetched record-breaking prices, captivating collectors and connoisseurs alike. In November 2006, American business magnate David Geffen sold de Kooning’s “Woman III” to hedge fund manager Steven A. Cohen for a staggering $137.5 million.

This transaction was just shy of the record at the time, which involved the same players for Jackson Pollock’s “No. 5, 1948,” sold for $140 million. Just a month earlier, Cohen had acquired another de Kooning piece, “Police Gazette,” from Geffen for $63.5 million.

The pinnacle of de Kooning’s market value came in September 2015 when Geffen sold “Interchange” to hedge-fund billionaire Ken Griffin for approximately $300 million. This sale set a new record for the highest price ever paid for a painting at that time.

In November 2016, another de Kooning work, “Untitled XXV,” sold for $66.3 million at Christie’s in New York, setting a new auction record for his pieces.

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Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

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Born on April 24, 1904, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, de Kooning’s early life was anything but glamorous. After his parents divorced when he was three, he navigated a challenging upbringing in a working-class environment. His artistic talent was evident from a young age, leading to an apprenticeship at a commercial art firm and night classes at the Rotterdam Academy of Fine Arts and Applied Sciences.

Driven by a dream to break into the American art scene, de Kooning stowed away on a British freighter in 1926, arriving in Newport News, Virginia. He eventually made his way to New York City, where he juggled jobs as a house painter and commercial artist while fervently pursuing his passion for painting.

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The New York Art Scene and Rise to Fame

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De Kooning’s foray into the New York art scene was marked by influential friendships and formative experiences. His relationships with artists like Arshile Gorky and Stuart Davis played a pivotal role in shaping his early work, which featured geometric shapes and vibrant colors, drawing inspiration from modernist pioneers such as Picasso and Miró.

The late 1940s saw de Kooning delve into black-and-white abstract paintings, a significant period that laid the groundwork for his later acclaim. His first solo exhibition in 1948 at the Charles Egan Gallery showcased these works, catapulting him into the spotlight.

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The Woman Series and Abstract Expressionism

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The 1950s were transformative for de Kooning, particularly with his “Woman” series. These paintings, beginning with “Woman I,” showcased his intense, gestural brushwork and fragmented, almost violent, representations of the female form. Controversial and provocative, they established him as a leading figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement, alongside contemporaries like Jackson Pollock.

De Kooning’s exploration of the female form was deeply personal. His tumultuous marriage to Elaine de Kooning, an artist in her own right, was marked by both collaboration and conflict. Their relationship, characterized by open infidelity, alcoholism, and periods of separation, mirrored the chaotic energy of his paintings.

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Drama and Glamour

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De Kooning’s life was steeped in drama and glamour. His marriage to Elaine was an open one, with both engaging in numerous affairs. Elaine’s relationships with influential figures like art critic Harold Rosenberg and ARTnews editor Thomas B. Hess helped further Willem’s career. Meanwhile, de Kooning had a daughter, Lisa, with Joan Ward in 1956 and was romantically involved with Ruth Kligman, who had previously been Jackson Pollock’s lover until his tragic death in a car crash.

Despite their personal turmoil, Willem and Elaine remained connected through their shared passion for art. Elaine’s fierce independence and dedication to her own career often led to fiery clashes, yet their bond endured, culminating in a reunion in 1976 after nearly two decades of separation.

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Financial Triumphs

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As de Kooning’s reputation soared, so did the value of his work. By the end of the 1950s, he was considered one of the most influential painters globally. This acclaim translated into financial success, particularly in the 21st century. His paintings became highly sought-after commodities in the art market, fetching record-breaking prices that reflected their immense cultural and artistic value.

In 2006, the sale of “Woman III” for $137.5 million and “Police Gazette” for $63.5 million underscored the high demand for his work. However, it was the sale of “Interchange” for approximately $300 million in 2015 that truly shattered records, demonstrating the enduring appeal and significance of his contributions to modern art.

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Legacy and Influence

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Willem de Kooning’s impact on the art world is immeasurable. By the end of the 1950s, he was widely regarded as a pioneer of Abstract Expressionism, a movement characterized by its emotive intensity and innovative techniques. His unique approach to “action painting” and his bold, expressive style left an indelible mark on the trajectory of modern art.

From his humble beginnings in Rotterdam to the heights of the New York art scene, de Kooning’s story is one of relentless passion, artistic innovation, and personal complexity. The drama and glamour of his personal life, intertwined with his professional achievements, paint a vivid picture of an artist who lived and created with intensity and fervor.

De Kooning’s legacy, both as a pioneer of Abstract Expressionism and as a cultural icon, endures, reflecting the profound impact of his vision on the world of art. His meteoric rise and record-breaking sales are not just testaments to his financial success, but also to the enduring power and relevance of his artistic genius. Willem de Kooning’s influence extended beyond his lifetime, with exhibitions of his work continuing to draw acclaim well into the 21st century.

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