”A hero is someone who is truly immersed in their own field of inquiry, and it’s clear that they have progressed far along in that journey. It doesn’t matter what they do—art, sports, science, culinary arts…”
What drives you?
It’s hard to say. I think I’m a person of compromise, and as such, I function best when my workday includes a good balance of what I have to do and what I want to do.
What else do you do?
I see myself as a kind of Renaissance artist — once someone opens the door to one branch of art, they gain the confidence needed to explore others as well. I’m drawn to challenges and new pursuits. I enjoy writing, playing the oud, gardening, and going for walks where I can think and reflect.
What should an artist possess — qualities and skills?
Certainly openness of mind, self-criticism, vision, and of course a full bucket of patience and perseverance to hone one’s craft to exhaustion.
Criticism? Who and what can influence your work? …the presentation or placement of your work?
I don’t mind criticism. I find it interesting to see how others perceive my work. Even if the feedback is negative, it’s important to be aware of that aspect of your creation. After all, every coin has two sides. Many influences are possible, and I deliberately cultivate my curiosity and openness so I can encounter as many of them as possible. I think least about the presentation or promotion of my work — I’m a bit lazy when it comes to that, and I find it difficult to push myself forward. But I never turn down invitations.
Who is your superhero? Who are today’s superheroes?
Someone who is truly immersed in their field, and it’s clear they’ve come a long way in that journey. It doesn’t matter what they do — art, sports, science, cooking…
How do you experience isolation?
Isolation should be an integral part of our lives. We need to receive, we need to give, but in between, we must retreat and contemplate all those inputs, shaping them into our work. Listening to your inner voice is extremely important, and that can only happen in moments of solitude and seclusion.
What good can come out of this situation?
It’s still not really clear to me what’s happening. There’s so much contradictory information. Because of that, I don’t really know what good or bad could come out of all this.
Do you have a TV at home?
Yes. Truthfully, it’s mostly turned off.
Do you listen to the radio?
Yes, sometimes. Sometimes I listen to various talks, sometimes to my own playlists, and sometimes to the radio.
Bicycle or walking?
Oh, neither. I’m more of a forest and nature person — I love the mountains and long, wandering walks.
Are you vegan or vegetarian?
Moderate. I haven’t completely eliminated meat from my diet, but I often eat just a little or only in traces.
Beer or wine?
Doesn’t matter. I drink whatever others are drinking. I don’t have a strong preference. That’s the attitude I take toward many things. I don’t get attached; I let the situation carry me along. When I travel, I enjoy trying regional specialties and drinks.
Do you recycle?
Unfortunately, no.
Book or movie?
Absolutely. Like I said, you need input to spark influence and generate ideas.
And music…?
Sometimes I can’t stop listening to it, and other times I enjoy just listening to silence for days.
Recommend a website/portal/app…
Pinterest. I love it. It’s an endless source of inspiration for literally everything I’ve ever imagined could exist.