Inspired by the real and naive
At The Ode To we are always curious to learn more about creativity and artistry, so we asked Munich-based artist Aliya Abs to tell us a little bit about her life, her art and her sources of inspiration.
Aliya Abs
What inspired you to create the artworks you have made for The Ode To?
– My artworks are inspired by the trends and movements in modern art, from the beginning of the 20th century until today. However, my most important source of inspiration comes from the real, naive world of my children.
What do you call your series of artworks?
– I classify my favorite motifs into three categories: "PEOPLE", "PLACES", "THINGS". So, my current works are mainly about people, places of living and furnishings, from table scenes with vases to fashion and accessories from everyday life. My artistic work is influenced by academic teaching and by real, everyday life with my two children. In addition, there are influences from different cultures of our globalized society.
What technique have you used?
– I work mainly on traditional media such as canvases and paper for my paintings and drawings, using acrylic and oil pastel pencils.
Can you tell us about your background and how you came to be an artist?
– Even as a child I was creative. My interest was primarily aroused by artists and musicians in the family. Childish curiosity turned into a serious passion. As a teenager, I devoured art history books. A love of art developed that at times was stronger than any other form. I could paint undisturbed every day. At that time, I decided to do whatever it took to get into the national art academy. Nothing was worse than not being able to paint. I completed both my bachelor's degrees and my master's degrees at the National Academy of Arts in Lviv in Ukraine, with distinction. Since 2010 I've been living and working as a freelance artist in Munich.
What other artists do you admire?
– I admire the contemporary art that Johanna Dumet creates, but also Egon Schile and his wonderful portraits. The reduction of Malewitsch and so many other artists! But creative and inspiring minds are not only found in visual arts. Fashion, photography and music are also great sources of inspiration for me.
How would you describe your art and aesthetics in three words?
– Contemporary, dreamy and a bit naive
What we love about Aliya Abs:
There's something irresistible about the artworks that Aliya Abs creates; being both contemporary and classic at the same time, they have a naive and playful expression.
