Q: Paul, your abstract paintings often evoke strong emotions. Can you share where your inspiration comes from?
A: Inspiration for my work is often derived from both nature and life’s unpredictable moments. Travel plays a significant role in this; the unique energy of a place—the architecture, the sounds, or the feel of the environment—often sparks the initial idea for a painting. I’m drawn to the raw energy and emotion that different surroundings stir within me.
Q: How do you transform those inspirations into abstract art?
A: I prefer to approach abstract art as a language that transcends representation. Color, texture, and composition come together to convey an emotion, a sensation, or the atmosphere of a specific moment. My goal is not to depict something literal but to allow the viewer to feel the same energy I felt in the process of creating it.
Q: You’ve spoken about using sustainable materials in your art. How does sustainability fit into your creative process?
A: Sustainability is deeply embedded in my practice. For example, I’ve painted over discarded materials such as old TV screens to give them new life. By reusing MDF or wood, I create works that are not only innovative but eco-conscious. It’s a creative challenge that keeps me engaged and helps me maintain a connection to the world around me while minimizing waste.
Q: What piece of artwork stands out the most for you and why?
A: One of my most memorable works was inspired by a trip to Thailand. The vibrant colors, the texture of the land, and the dynamic pace of life there had a profound effect on me. I poured that sensory experience into the canvas, blending bold, textured strokes with vibrant hues to capture the essence of that place. That painting remains a cornerstone of my creative journey.
Q: Can you tell us about the relationship you have with your audience and how it influences your work?
A: My relationship with my audience is incredibly important. I don’t always intend for my work to be fully explained. I like it when people bring their own interpretation to it. I feel that art can create a dialogue and a shared experience between the artist and the viewer, and that exchange often inspires me to take my work in new directions.
Q: Abstract art can seem intimidating to some. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to explore this genre?
A: I’d suggest approaching abstract art without preconceived notions of what it should be. Let go of the idea that there must be a clear subject. Abstract art is an invitation to feel, not to understand immediately. The more you explore, the more you realize that each piece is its own story—a story that you’re invited to experience, not to decode.
Q: What is your process when beginning a new piece?
A: My process usually starts with a blank canvas and a lot of thought. I’ll often think about the colors, textures, and feelings I want to explore. I usually let the work evolve naturally, reacting to what’s happening on the canvas, allowing the painting to guide me. Sometimes it’s spontaneous, other times it requires more careful planning. The process is as much about letting go as it is about being in control.