Artist Interview

Art by Mirree from Australia

In the realm of contemporary art, Mirree's work stands out as a true masterpiece. Her artistic style is truly unique, combining various techniques and mediums to create captivating pieces that leave a lasting impact on viewers. Mirree has a remarkable ability to evoke deep emotions through her art, making her highly sought-after by both art collectors and enthusiasts.

This is an interview with artist Mirree from Australia.

How would you describe yourself? And your artwork?

I would describe myself as an introvert that is highly creative and spiritual, although I am friendly and like to be social; I also like my own space. This is important to my work and the documentation of it. I am motivated by having deep meaning in my life that connects me with the natural world around me. I enjoy visiting the city and exotic places around the world because I love to travel and go to places I have not been to before but do not like to stay in the city for long periods of time. I like the peace and tranquillity of nature too much. I thrive on change and challenging myself to go to lengths I have not been to before, I think this keeps me on my toes. Plus it keeps things interesting and exciting because life can be dull sometimes. I long to feel the excitement of life and get bored easily when I am in the mundane world which is when I am not painting bright colours on the canvas, painting brings to light important information, experiences and feelings that need to be highlighted, this brings me immense happiness. I think if there is something in your life that you cannot live without or there is something that brings you out of a state of loneliness, despair or unhappiness that you can overcome on your own and only you, then perhaps you’ve found your calling. But it doesn’t stop there because it takes a lot of courage to follow through with that calling.

What drives you?

Coming from an Aboriginal background from my fathers side, nature has moved me in many different ways since I was a little girl from the landscape scenery from places that I visited, the animals I see and the feelings that swelled up from within me; spiritually connecting me to my Aboriginal roots. I can describe my feelings better when painting and the messages/stories that come with the paintings when I write them down, it’s an expression of this feeling. Also a particular interest in Birds and Sea life animals which are a favourite amongst others. The protection of their habitats for the continual survival of Gods creatures.

What is your definition of art?

Art is a way that you can learn about yourself and the world around you. I don’t think Art should be replicated but interpreted through the lens of the creator or the artist which comes from their own artistic expression. This artistic expression can only be found through years of years of practise which makes up their own signature art style. Art by Mirree www.artworksbymirree.com The reason I say this is because it gives you a time-line of a variety of experiments that you can look back upon about the artist which makes up all the different components and functions of that art piece which then the Artist can decide what needs to be improved upon. Also I believe Art should challenge viewers and move them in an emotional way that in turn expresses something that can stir up a memory or some kind of feeling that is yearning inside of them. You can call yourself an artist if you have this ability to move others with your Art, whether you want to shock people or raise awareness, at the core its always a form of expression that has no defining limits. Defining art doesn’t come down to just 1 thing but many, it is an essential part of our daily lives because it has the power to inspire, challenge and transform peoples hearts and minds which brings purpose and meaning.

Where do you get your inspiration?

My inspiration mainly comes from nature and music is what motivates me because I use to be a dancer for many years when I was a little girl so I became so use to listening to music to express rhythm and movement. This eventually translated into my Art through the form of painting which I fell in love with when I was 16 years old, after spending a few years studying drawing with mainly pencil and traditional materials such as charcoal. I then moved onto ink pens before discovering painting. I believe that is how my paintings progressively became so detailed, because my pencil or pen then became my brush which I knew I could learn to use in the same way but with a lot more expressive qualities.

How do you deal with artist's block?

I do not get this very often, I find it challenging enough to keep up with myself with all the ideas and inspiration I have that pours into me on a regular basis. I think Artist block comes when you are trying too hard to force an outcome. The best solution for this is stepping outside in nature to interrupt the mind of its thinking, so you can take yourself into a world that releases the pressures of the daily mundane life. We don’t have enough time to do this enough, so this can bring a feeling of calm and ease to your artists block which will release the tension of this force.

Where do you see your art going in ten years?

I see my Art expanding into places which I only feel like I’m beginning to comprehend at this moment in time. I always wanted to reach a worldwide audience of people from all parts of the world but I guess I did not realise how big this was to become. I feel that a world that is connected by the common thread of emotion places us all in a very real and practical experience that we can all have in common with one another. No one is beyond this experience or better for having ignored it; regardless of race, colour or religion. We are all connected in unity consciousness. If my Art continues to reach people and bring awareness of the importance of nature and this unity in another 10 years, then I would feel like we are continuing to build and progress more in our evolution. With a focus on love not hate and peace not war. I still want to keep it simple and not over-complicate things. My interest also remains in large-scaled works and animals related to culture throughout the world, not just in my backyard.

Best exhibition ever participated in…?

The most memorable exhibition was the “The Story of the Creatives” with See Me Gallery in 2013 when my ‘Dreamtime Day Owl’ Art was projected 40 stories high in New York City.

Greatest achievements so far…?

My greatest achievements so far has been to travel the world with my Art and also produce nearly 1000 pieces of Original Art so far in my lifetime and I’m only half way through my life so far. Most of these pieces have been produced in the past 10 years of my life. The most memorable has been to produce my 1st Collection of Original Paintings Called the “Dreamtime Collection” which began in 2012. After all this time, I am only releasing the collection now. The 1st of my larger-scaled Original Paintings. These works formed the foundation to my career and made it what it is today because of so many people worldwide having seen them and recognising their familiar nature or having purchased the products associated with the collection of paintings such as the Dreamtime Colouring Books or Card Deck and other products. 

Art by Mirree

www.artworksbymirree.com

Artist Interview: Natalia Koren Kropf, New York: The unknown is what inspires me and keeps me going.

Natalia Koren Kropf born in St.Petersburg, USSR living in New York City, USA exhibited at the recent Shanghai International Art Fair and was a huge success with the local art buyers.

Natalia is a classically trained, interdisciplinary, award-winning contemporary artist who combines art and science in various studio media. She explores current topics of change in climate and society and the eternal themes of light and movement. She creates art forms that radiate happy vibes, attractive visuals that elevate, and a sense of completeness. Natalia works as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker and experiments with different materials and new combinations of eco-friendly techniques. 

Natalia lives and works in New York City.

Natalia Koren Kropf was selected one of the Top Ten Emerging Artists and featured in WideWalls international publication 2020.

Hopes and Dreams

What is so unique about your artworks?

I am committed to creating work that radiates positive vibes and deep contemplation. My artistic aspiration, rooted in respect for Nature and Human beings, is often expressed in abstract form.  I work in series of interdisciplinary collections that are cohesive to show together.


I love experimenting with materials and mixing the media in 2D and 3D works as I adapt to environmentally clean techniques, utilizing non-toxic materials. I believe in the interconnectedness of all things. In my work, I link the qualities of the natural elements with various cultural symbols and draw visual parallels of these correlations, using organic shapes and interwoven trajectories. I am exploring the dynamic of movement and light - the light reflected on the surfaces of sculpture, and the inner light that works of art emanate, reflecting the artist’s intention.


My process is intuitive and so are my findings. The unknown is what inspires me and keeps me going.

Where do you get your inspiration?

NKK: Observing Nature is my constant inspiration. For years and years, I observed and recorded what I saw around me by painting landscapes and portraits, drawing forms and textures, studying human anatomy, range of movement, and dance. Naturally, during the forming years, I started composing my own versions of the visual dynamic by simplifying motion trajectories into curvatures, obtaining a gradual understanding of the interconnected universe by learning about quantum physics and string theory, through my spiritual practice, poetry, and intuitive sense of oneness. So far my artistic journey has been fueled by curiosity about who I am in this great universal puzzle.

Ancient Whispers

How do you deal with artist's block?

NKK: When I cannot paint, I write poetry.When I cannot write poetry, I paint.

It is really a great formula for me not to get down too much for too long. I understand that artistic process comes in waves and it if important to let your self rest from most amazing projects ( especially the most intense and inspiring ones). To avoid a burnout, I switch my attention to another side of my brain until I need another break, then  go back to painting or very long nature walks. 


Where do you see your art going in ten years?

NKK:   The unknown always inspires me, why define the future? Even if painted the same subject, using one single technique - my work would evolve, because everything is changing around me. I am also changing. Yet, I state  the same - themesless themes, timeless nature. But I do not stay the same. Neither does nature. 

 

Can you tell us what you have going on right now?

 NKK:  Currently I am working on a complex form - a bronze sculpture.

I am very grateful to the Artios Gallery for representing me and for giving me excellent exhibition opportunities, such as Shanghai International Art Fair. Earlier this year I participated in the New York Art Expo 2023, where I was introduced to A&E Fine Art Gallery, who invited me to join them at the Red Dot/Spectrum  Miami Art Fair this December 2023. Meanwhile, I am working on a new body of work in collaboration with Art Plexus Group, an Artios Gallery new Project entitled The Elements. I am very excited – it's right down my alley – stay tuned!

 

Can you tell us what your 'Before I Die' is?

NKK: My motto is to  live my life to the fullest! Which means not to loose a vivid beat of my artistry, deepen my perception and optimize my expression. 

There are so many pathways to travel, virtually and literally. So many places to see and people to meet. I embrace all that  comes my way. I am expanding my horizons as I grow old. 

 What is your life quote/motto?

I came to manifest harmony in life.”  

I always believed that by observing harmony of nature, one can become its part. In my artworks and in my communication I go with the flow and welcome any opportunity.  I try to find peace of mind in the most difficult situations and it proved to be a cure for stress and negativity. There is a silver lining to any situation. You can see it in my painting entitled The Silver Lining, which will be presented at the Red Dot/Spectrum in Miami. 


How do you work?

I work intuitively.

It is really hard to put into words. 

I suppose it is a kind of conscious living in constant vigilance for an inspirational spark. Once that occurs, it is up to my organizational  skills, patience and drive you to make it happen, to manifest my vision in response to the ignited idea. 


What’s integral to the work of an artist?

Continuous learning and listening to the heart are the integral components of being an artist. 

One Spiritual master once answered the question addressed to him: “What makes you a master?” With the words : “The moment one decides that he is a master, he stops being a master”.

The same thing in art. It is a process, and artworks are  the by products of this process. And there is more to that, I am sure. 

 

What could you not do without?

Sunshine and a sense of humor!

Those who take themselves too seriously, become guided by their thoughts and forget that a lot in life comes at unexpected moments. Those who can adapt to any

change with a lightened up mind, with humor, experience joy of the mere surprise itself. We cannot control our environment, but we can learn to live there and even thrive. That’s why the sunshine is so important!


COLLECTIONS

Works in private collections in Germany, Austria, Czech Republic,

Greece, Cyprus, Finland, Russia, Japan, Lesotho, and the United States.


AWARDS

2023 American Fine Art Society: Artistic Merit Award

2023 Art Students League of New York Salons: Honorable Mention for Bronze sculpture

2022 Allied Artists of America: Award for Bronze Sculpture at the Associate Members Online Show

2021 Certificate of Excellence for Painting at the Empirical Abstraction International Show

2020 Selected one of the Top Ten Artists and featured in WideWalls international publication. 

2019 Celia Kaufman Memorial Award For Innovative Ceramic Sculpture

2018 NAWA Certificate of Excellence Award in Photography

2016 Jean M. Leeman Award for Printmaking

2014 Esther C. Gayner Memorial Award for Printmaking


PUBLICATIONS

2023 Allied Artists of America. 110th Annual Catalog. 

2023 Art Business News. New York’s Artios Gallery. ArtExpo New York.

2023 Sanctuary Magazine. Interview with Editor. By Myrna Haskell.

2022 Allied Artists of America. 109th Annual Award Winners Catalog. 

2021 Elysian Magazine. Unique Feature on NAWA by Suzanne Johnson. Atlanta, GA - NYC

2020 Top Ten Artists. “Focus Blue” Feature on WideWalls by Balasz Takasch

2020 National Association of Women Artists Magazine. “Red Carpet feature”, NYC

2018 The High Brow Magazine. “ Celebrate Women” By Sandra Bertrand, NYC

2011 “Together”. Exhibition Catalog. New Century Artists, Chelsea, NYC

2010 The Art Times. “International Women Artists” in Highland Art Center, Beacon, NY


CONTACT NATALIA:

Website url: https://www.korenkropf.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalia.korenkropf/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliakorenkropf/




Shafaq Ahmad: "The Element of Geometric Shapes coming through Manifests Beauty through Balance and Harmony" Shanghai International Art Fair

The Mysterious Letters, Realm of the Hidden, installation. 

Artist Name: Shafaq Ahmad

Born: Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Live: Texas, United States

Website url: www.shafaqahmad.com 


Shafaq Ahmad was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. After Ahmad left Pakistan she lived in the United Kingdom, Iran and Denmark before settling down in the United States. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia in 1991 and a Master of Fine Art degree from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas in 2011. She has travelled around the globe visiting many countries in Asia, Europe and North America. Ahmad worked as an art glass designer from 1995 to 2003 and collaborated with several art glass studios in Czech Republic and Sweden. She also designed art glass for Barovier and Toso Czech Republic till 2003 for 8 years. Her art glass designs are in private collections in many countries. Presently, she works as a multimedia artist. She employs painting, 3D, digital media, print making, mixed media and onsite installations. Ahmad has participated in many solo and over 70 group exhibitions in the USA, United Kingdom, Pakistan, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy and United Arab Emirates. Her work is a part of permanent collections at the Sharjah Department of Art and Culture in the United Arab Emirates, Museum of Geometric and Madi Art in Dallas, Texas, Mercedes Benz Daimler Financial, Corporate Headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas and other institutions. Ahmad’s work has been published in Dallas Morning News, Art Voices magazine, Studio Visit magazine, Islamic Arts Magazine, Emel magazine, Art Now Pakistan, Dallas Art Review, Star Telegram, Libas Magazine, Valassko, Vlastivedna Revue, VAIA, bont VOOR BINNEN, and Ceramic & Glass, among other publications.

Firmaments Revolve and Merge, oil on linen

SHAFAQ AHMAD, ARTIST STATEMENT

I hope that my art brings a different point of view which most of the audience can relate to visually and spiritually. To most people my work may look very abstract and that is intentional but it is the spirit of the artwork that I hope people will connect as individuals and as a group. Also my work consists of repetitive writing or mark making, and layering which represents meditation of each thing on it’s Creator, in the cosmos. If you observe closely one finds this repetition in everything in the Nature from an atom to humans, animal kingdom, plant life, planets, stars, fractals and so on and so forth. 

The act of creating serves as contemplative process through which I attempt to show the connection of the universal spirit of all living beings. The experience of being embraced by the universal spirit is expressed through luminosity of color and light, movement through gesture, richness through layering of color, and depth through intertwining mark making. The element of geometric shapes coming through manifests beauty through balance and harmony. The calligraphic mark with a sense of forever being repeated represents the infinite consciousness. The movement and the energy of the calligraphic marks show the constant state of flux of each thing. 

The Protector, oil on canvas

How would you describe yourself? And your artwork? 

My art work is inspired by the tradition of mysticism which is based on a belief in one Creator who is the prime source of all creation. I truly believe that I am but a vehicle for the creation of my artwork and do not ascribe any credit to myself. Mostly my paintings are spontaneous and not much planning goes into them. The painting evolves as the canvas start to dictate the progression. At some point I stop and move back from the canvas to look at it from a critical eye to evaluate the progression more formally. In other techniques apart from painting I have to employ more structure and planning for example the composition and layering of the images. The process is  the most important in my work. I also feel that as I grow as a person my artwork evolves too.

Ahmad at the print studio in Dallas

What drives you? 

The love for the Creator and the Creation in all its natural forms. Nature and the Universe itself is a great teacher. All one needs is contemplation and investigation. Actually I learn from everyone and everything around me every day.

What is your definition of art?

Art is an expression of each individual and in a way a portrait of the self, her/his inner struggles, aspirations and relationships. Art is a vehicle to connect to others and cross the boundaries of cultures and  traditions. It is a perfect way to not only relate to people but also learn to be accepting of others and to open a dialog without seeming threatening or intimidating.


I know my artwork is finished when…?

My artwork is finished when I feel that adding or subtracting anything would not enhance the artwork in anyway.

The Witness, oil on canvas

Greatest person you ever met?

The most influential people in my life were my parents.
The brought me up with a good balance of belief system, cultural values, exposure to art and literature, work ethic and taught me how to take life as gracefully as one can and be accepting of others.


Have you ever had a spiritual happening?

 I wouldn’t be who I am without them. 

How do you work?

As an artist I work in my studio for few hours every day or most days. I paint and also work digitally to create artwork. I also employ other media as needed. The aim is to be consistent and work as hard as you can to make the best presentation possible. I prefer to work in in the morning in my studio when I feel most rested and relaxed. I also take mental notes when I am traveling and take photographs as reminders and documentary purposes. 

Apparent and Hidden, oil on canvas

I was born and raised in Pakistan which is primarily an Islamic country with a rich history and culture, including art in all forms and literature. Pakistan is also known for many important mystic figures and their inspiring writings. I grew up with exposure to rich textures, colors, sounds and diverse cultures, different ethnicities, costumes and many languages and dialects. Urdu is the national language of Pakistan. I was introduced to visual arts, music, poetry and literature from an early age and remember sitting with my parents and their friends, including well known artists during intellectual discussions and poetry  sessions.


What’s integral to the work of an artist?

Artists must be true to themselves, and try to use original ideas, thoughts and inspirations. Sincerity is of the utmost importance in what an artist is portraying, for the audience to connect to the spirit of the work. They also must have a good work ethic to consistently produce quality work. The artist must aspire to be the best at what she/he creates.

What work do you most enjoying doing?

I enjoy making art with different techniques and using various media, but I enjoy painting on canvas the most. I also enjoy creating digitally as it allows me to work at a much faster pace. It has helped me in creating installations in a much shorter period of time. 

What themes do you pursue?

In my work process is very important. I use literature, contemplation, observing nature and research the sciences  pertaining to the cosmos especially advancements in astronomy, astrophysics and the relationship between the micro and the macro in our Universe.

 Transparent Veils, mixed media

What’s your favorite art work?

One of my favorite series that I made is Forty Days Forty Nights. In this series I created one image per day for consecutive forty days, working few hours each day. This was a form of meditation inspired by a traditional meditative practice  in my culture where the devotee isolates him/herself for forty days and nights to contemplate and try to connect with the Creator. 

Forty Days Forty Nights, Chillah series of forty images

What jobs have you done other than being an artist?

I owned an art gallery for 10 years after my undergraduate studies and worked as gallery director and curator. I represented many local and international artists in Virginia, USA. I also volunteered as an Art Director and curator for a non profit organization till last year in Dallas, Texas. We organized international exhibitions and symposiums to bring Islamic art to the local communities in cooperation with local museums, Universities and other art organizations. Now I have founded a new organization called Contemporary Islamic Art Forum. My aim is to bring contemporary Islamic art to the local community working with local and international artists and experts. 

What research to you do?

I have a library in my studio where I have books to research and inspire me as an artist, including books on art, mysticism, science and philosophy. I also research the internet for the latest development in the arts, as well as in the field of astronomy and other sciences. During my travels I am always finding new information and inspiration from people, places and nature in general. 

Meet Elena Seroff a Contemporary New York-based Artist : Exhibitor Shanghai International Art Fair.

Elena Seroff is a contemporary New York-based artist who works in abstract painting, drawing, and printmaking. Born in 1975 in the coastal city Kaliningrad (Konigsberg), Elena developed a passion for art at a young age and dedicated herself to honing her craft. She spent her teenage years in Estonia. After finishing high school in Paldiskiy, Elena studied fashion design at LEX University in Tallinn. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Elena returned to her hometown, where she earned a diploma from the Art and Industry College in Decorative Art. In 1996, Elena immigrated to New York, where perspectives on art continued to develop and evolve. In 2010, she participated in the two-year program for figurative drawing at The National Academy and School of Fine Art and Chelsea Classical Studio in New York.

Despite being an impressionist artist, Elena decided to branch out and start creating abstract art. This new direction has allowed her to explore deeper themes and emotions through her work. Elena often incorporates her experiences and feelings in her abstract paintings, adding intimacy and vulnerability to her art. Elena's transition from impressionist to abstract art has been an exciting evolution in her career. It showcases her versatility as an artist and her willingness to take risks to grow and evolve.

Being passionate about art, Elena started Clarus Art Studio in 2015. The same year, she began working as an art director at The Pushkin Society of America. Later, she founded The Pushkin Society Artists Guild for established and emerging artists, where she curated many art and literature events. Elena also serves as Founder and Art Director for Artios Gallery, a curated online gallery that showcases contemporary artists selected for their unique creative vision. In 2021, Elena participated in the group exhibition "Sciarsism" at the Kyiv History Museum, Ukraine. She received The Best Artist in Abstract award during the show and exhibited at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art (MMOMA). Currently, Elena lives and works in New York City. 

What is so unique about your artworks? How do you work?

I am an artist whose work spans both impressionist and abstract styles. My unique approach is to capture light and color with my willingness to delve into deeper themes through my abstract work. I am drawn towards the simple, unpretentious, and quotidian in framing my vision of reality. This sensibility can be reflected in my abstract series "Love in Three Colors" and "Adam & Eve Rebirth," which depict emotional connections between people, passions, and expressions of love that provoke a sense of movement as a continuation of life.

Like the Spiral Dynamics Model theory, human creativity has been developed and improved over centuries. I look for rhythm and balance in composition through color and line. Form comes first, and color is a complementary factor. Spontaneity is not for my creative process. First, I create different compositions by sketching using colored pencils and watercolors and modifying or adding color combinations to find the right balance. After I find a suitable design and am satisfied, I start working with the canvas. I prefer to work with oil paint, which allows me to use the glazing technique. Lately, I've been adding a style of Pointillism, enabling me to find the desired transformation to soften from dark to light tones in my art.

What is your background?

I started my journey in art at the age of 14. Raised in a family of military personnel, I changed three schools. As a high school student, I enrolled in an after-school art class. I do not recall the name of my first art teacher. However, I remember my first painting lesson and a still-life setup composition with a Rowan Tree branch in a vase. Having never held a brush and not knowing where to start, the art teacher sat me down in front of the composition and said, "Start painting." Attending an art class was very interesting, and I quickly began to gain the skills of a real artist. A year later, my group and I participated in a regional art competition for talented students, where I received an honor diploma for successful participation.

The passion for art came to me from my maternal grandfather, Valentin. I only knew a little about him since we didn't communicate often. But every time I visited his home, I saw a lot of photographs, canvases, and stretchers lying on the floor. He was an excellent photographer, painter, and a gifted furniture-making craftsman. While his name might not have echoed the grandeur of Serov Valentin Alexandrovich, my grandfather, Serov Valentin Petrovich, carved his path of brilliance in his unique and talented way.

Where do you get your inspiration? What are the main directions in your creative path?

I began my artistic journey with realism, fueled by a deep appreciation for academic art. However, my passion led me away from conventional forms embracing abstract thinking. Delving into Cubism and Abstraction, I realized that these artistic realms align more closely with my philosophy about art. Among the pioneers who inspired me from the early 20th century are Juan Gris, Vasily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, Lyubov Popova, and others.

Human beings are inherently emotionally and physically unstable entities, reflecting life's endless transformation. An excellent example of this transformation is Pablo Picasso, who continuously changed his artistic style throughout his creative evolution. 

Presently, my primary artistic focus is around Suprematism and Geometric Abstraction. I aim to prompt viewers to engage in contemplation and free-thinking, much like the dynamic and ever-changing nature of life and humanity.

What is your life quote/motto?
Never stop. Move forward and make plans. Believe into yourself, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.


Artist Name: Elena Seroff

Born: 1975, Kaliningrad / USSR

Live: New York, NY / USA

Website url: www.elenaseroff.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elenaseroffart

Instagram: www.instagram.com/elenaseroff