Artist Alexia Vogel turns landscapes into dreamscapes
We chat to artist Alexia Vogel, whose oil paintings are making waves on the local art scene
How would you describe your work?
I tend to describe my paintings as abstracted landscapes, but I think they are becoming more of an exploration of the materiality of paint.
I work with very watered-down oil paint, which is actually thinned with turpentine, and I rely on the fluidity of the paint and the way it falls, seeps and stains the canvas to direct the beginning of the painting. It's this technique that lends my work a dream-like quality.
What are you working on?
I am working towards the AKAA (Also Known as Africa) Art Fair in Paris, which will take place in November. The Barnard Gallery, which represents me, is taking their whole stable of artists. It is very exciting and will be my first European exposure.Where do you make your art?
My studio is at my parents' house. They have very generously let me mess up one or two of their rooms. It's a smallish space, and rather chaotic, with lots of source images, postcards of paintings, books and general stuff scattered around. Yet among the paint-splattered walls and floor of chaos, there is order; everything important has its place.
What's a typical day like in your studio?
I am a bit of a procrastinator, so it involves many cups of tea and some social media distractions. When I arrive, I turn my music on and eventually begin painting. Once I start working, I get really into it. There is no pattern though. Some days I paint for hours on end and some days only for a few minutes. It depends on my mood.In your experience, what's the best thing about making art?
The freedom. I am lucky to be able to make art for a living. I get to do what I love every day. It's important for me to be constantly aware of this and grateful for it.
And the worst?
I would have to say that the other side of that freedom is the most difficult part of an art career. Self-motivation is really challenging.
Three South African artists whose work you'd love to own?
I'll say Georgina Gratrix, Alexandra Karakashian and Ian Grose, but there are so many more.
• Follow Vogel on Instagram or visit barnardgallery.com...
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