CH.89: If you were to categorize or describe the style of your artwork, what would it be and why?
SK: I am a textile artist who predominantly works with embroidery techniques, particularly cross-stitch, lace, and other forms of needlework. Drawing inspiration from my personal experiences, I strive to create emotionally charged and individualistic artworks. I transfer my own photographs, collages, and designs onto fabric. I enjoy evoking vague impressions about myself in the minds of viewers when they see my pieces.
CH.89: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
SK: My main sources of inspiration are often derived from my personal experiences, dreams, and the relentless desires and thoughts that accompany me throughout the day. Sometimes, it could be an image formed in my mind influenced by a dream that I can barely recall upon waking up. Other times, it could be visuals generated from ideas that arise when I relentlessly push myself to create something new. Whenever an image forms in my mind and ignites a spark within my soul, I immediately set to work.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about what your creative thought process is like when starting a new project/ piece of artwork?
SK: My creative thinking process actually continues 24/7. Sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously, everything big or small that influences me in my life eventually has an impact on my art. I don’t see it as a job, and I don’t have a routine. In fact, it’s a routine that keeps ongoing. Since I work with a slow-paced art form technically, my mind is constantly accumulating thoughts anyway.
CH.89: Is there anything in particular that you would want people to take from your artwork?
SK: It’s not something I enjoy when artists talk about their work and try to guide the viewers. Art, for me, is about emotions. What comes to people’s minds when they see my work is what interests me the most.
CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about your lifestyle as an artist and what that is like?
SK: I lead a calm life. If I don’t have a job, I work a minimum of 10 hours a day. I usually spend weekends socializing. Dancing holds a significant place in my life; communicating through dance, accompanied by good music, deeply satisfies my soul.
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?
SK: I definitely act on instinct. Once an idea starts forming in my mind, an unstoppable energy drives me to take the necessary steps to bring it to life. I trust my intuition and allow it to guide me throughout the creative process. This innate approach fuels my passion and motivates me to transform ideas into tangible realities, embracing the journey with unwavering determination and enthusiasm.
CH.89: What is one major lesson you’ve learned as an artist thus far?
SK: Never suppress, be ashamed of, or fear the power that will transform you into an artist.
CH.89: Do you regard personal style & taste to be of highest importance?
SK: I am undecided about this matter. The artistic production process of an artist can indeed be influenced by their tastes, experiences, and observations. However, the opposite is also possible, where art is created purely on instinct, with personal preferences playing a minimal role. Moreover, our personal tastes are constantly changing, and this is a beautiful thing. It allows for growth, exploration, and the potential to discover new artistic expressions. It’s important to embrace both the influences that shape our art and the spontaneity that comes from within, as they can coexist and contribute to a rich and dynamic creative journey.
CH.89: What do you consider to be the hardest thing about being an artist?
SK: The hardest thing about being an artist is navigating the constant pressure to innovate and reinvent oneself. Balancing the desire to stay true to my artistic vision while also evolving creatively can be challenging, but it’s essential for continued growth and relevance in the ever-changing art world. Additionally, the vulnerability of putting deeply personal and emotional work out for public scrutiny can be daunting, but it’s a necessary part of the artistic process.
CH.89: What is one thing you love about being an artist?
SK: One thing I love about being an artist is the freedom to explore and express my inner world without constraints. It’s a powerful and transformative process that allows me to connect with others through my art.
CH.89: Is there anyone in particular, any artist’s that inspire you in any way?
SK: Cindy Sherman’s transformative and exploratory approach to self-portraits inspires me to experiment with textiles as a medium for conveying diverse emotions and identities. Her ability to challenge conventions and tell compelling visual stories through costumes and makeup motivates me to push the boundaries of textile art in my own way.
CH.89: What do you think of technology in terms of being a useful tool for artists today?
SK: Technology empowers us to break traditional barriers, experiment with new techniques, and create interactive and engaging artworks that resonate with the modern audience. Embracing technology opens up limitless possibilities, propelling our art into the realm of innovation and pushing the boundaries of my art.
CH.89: Do you think being an artist allows you to view the world differently from those who don’t follow creative paths?
SK: Artists often observe details others might overlook, find inspiration in everyday occurrences, and interpret emotions and experiences in distinct ways, allowing them to see the world with a creative lens.
CH.89: Do you enjoy traveling? If so, do you have a favorite city?
SK: Most people are often surprised when I tell them, but I simply don’t enjoy traveling. Despite having a curiosity about many places, I struggle to find enough motivation within myself to actually go to those destinations. While there are numerous places I am intrigued by, the thought of embarking on those journeys fails to ignite a strong desire within me. Instead, I find solace and inspiration in other avenues such as immersing myself in local culture, exploring my surroundings, and engaging with the artistic and creative aspects of my immediate environment. I believe that true inspiration can be found anywhere, and it is the exploration of the familiar that truly fuels my creative spirit.
CH.89: Do you have a favorite author or book?
SK: My favorite book is Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.
CH.89: Any future goals or plans for your artwork?
SK: My only plan regarding my art is to keep creating without losing my creative energy.
CH.89: What does being an artist mean to you?
SK: For me, being an artist is a constant exploration of creativity, culture, and the ever-changing dynamics of society.
CH.89: What’s the last song you listened to?
SK: Sexy Boy – Air
CH.89: Any last words on the aesthetic of your artwork?
SK: My artwork delves into the complexities of identity and the fluidity of self-representation. The aesthetic of my work embraces ambiguity, inviting viewers to question their perceptions and engage with the multiplicity of human experience.
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