CH.89: If you were to categorize or describe the style of your artwork, what would it be and why?
RP: In my work as an artist I investigate the field of photography in an experimental way. In trying to dissolve the established usage of photography, I find new ways of showing a person. I totally like the idea of a (nearly) faceless portrait, because it gives space for the viewer’s ideas and associations.
CH.89: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
RP: From everything that gives me an impulse. That can be the smoothness of a material, the shade of a color or the charisma of a stranger.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about what your creative thought process is like when starting a new project/ piece of artwork?
RP: Most of the time I ask myself: does this idea make sense? Will it work out the way I want it to?
CH.89: Is there anything in particular that you would want people to take from your artwork?
RP: Every viewer sees the work with other eyes, because every person has other characteristics and experiences and therefore other associations. For me it’s important that people feel a connection to my work and ask themselves what it means to them.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about your lifestyle as an artist and what that is like?
RP: I think my life differs mostly from others because of my project based working style. I love to make my own schedule. It is a balance between working a lot and pauses to think about new projects.
CH.89: When starting out an artistic task, do you think it is better to have a particular direction/set plan guiding your way? Or, is it better to act on impulse and go from there?
RP: In my opinion both ways can lead to great artwork. I experience that when I work on very complex ideas it helps to have a plan, some kind of guide, that I choose for that particular work. But I think the first rough idea is sometimes the best choice, because it is so true and out of the moment, without all the thinking.
CH.89: What is one major lesson you’ve learned as an artist thus far?
RP: You have to be confident about your work and yourself and never stop learning.
CH.89: Do you regard personal style & taste to be of highest importance?
RP: No not really, both are very important, but not the essential key. I think that personal style and taste develops, while you develop as a person. Most important is authenticity.
CH.89: What do you consider to be the hardest thing about being an artist?
RP: To make the right decisions.
CH.89: What is one thing you love about being an artist?
RP: The freedom to work with your creativity and being able to show what is beneath.
CH.89: Is there anyone in particular, any artist’s that inspire you in any way?
RP: I get inspired by very different artists. I like mostly rough work, which is not perfect but give me an intense feeling.
CH.89: What do you think of technology in terms of being a useful tool for artists today?
RP: I would say that social media helps a lot when you are at the beginning. The opportunity to share your works and to connect with people is overwhelming.
CH.89: Do you think being an artist allows you to view the world differently from those who don’t follow creative paths?
RP: I think everyone’s views differ from another, but artists try to visualize their view.
CH.89: Do you enjoy traveling? If so, do you have a favorite city?
RP: I love traveling! Most of my destinations have been in Europe, like Paris, Rome and London. I think every place has its own aura and I have a lot of places to visit on my list.
CH.89: Do you have a favorite author or book?
RP: The last book I read was a book of short biographies, of 300 famous women, which was really interesting because of their different and exciting paths.
CH.89: Any future goals or plans for your artwork?
RP: Currently I’m working on a portrait project which includes the factor of coincidence.
CH.89: What does being an artist mean to you?
RP: As an artist you share your personal and special view of the world with the world.
CH.89: What’s the last song you listened to?
RP: Lost and Found by Pretty Lights
CH.89: Any last words on the aesthetic of your artwork?
RP: Every image is unique, just like every human being is unique.
CHAPTER89 