We’re excited to introduce you to Toronto abstract artist Kirk Sutherland. Check out the interview below to get to know Kirk and his artwork a little more. Enjoy!
Toronto Artist Kirk Sutherland
How would you describe your artistic style?
Non-Representational/Post Painterly
What’s the main inspiration for your art?
The Unseen Metaphysical World
What is the biggest goal you try to achieve with your art?
Continuous innovation and invention from a technical and conceptual standpoint.
What’s your favourite thing about being an abstract artist?
Being able to visually present the unseen reality of feelings, emotions and thoughts.
Why abstract art and not other mediums? Have you always created abstract art or did you start out creating other styles?
I was classically trained by time I was in my mid-teens and began experimenting with materials and techniques out of desire to explore. It was and still is a necessary condition for me to creative from the standpoint of innovation, free from the confides of convention. I’m a graduate of Experimental Arts and Contemporary Art Studies, so experimentation is imbedded in my creative process.
If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Colour, depth, spiritual
What’s one thing people might not know about you and/or your art journey so far?
That I have created thousands and thousands of paintings and pieces of art. I have also used almost every conceivable media and material in the art making process as well.
Did you always know you’d be an artist or how has your art journey progressed?
I was building and creating things before I could read or write, so I believe strongly that I came here to create, invent and pioneer.
In your opinion, what’s the most important personal characteristic needed to embark on a career as an artist?
You have to be very independent and truly believe in yourself. You must be tenacious with this mindset.
What advice would you give up and coming abstract artists?
Listen to your inner-voice, it will guide you.
Do you have any favourite podcasts or books that you love and that have contributed to your journey as an artist?
There are so many. I have a personal library of books I always keep in my studio. The Hans Hofmann- Catalogue Raisonné of Paintings is a three-volume catalogue I refer to often.
What’s your most fulfilling and enjoyable experience as an artist so far?
There are a many. I suppose having one of my public art pieces in a Hollywood film and my name in the credits.
Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?
I live in the now so I really can’t say. I’m very consistent and I’m always evolving and challenging myself and the foundations of conventionality.
What do you love most about abstract art?
I like the fact that it is void of any obvious narrative. For it relies mainly on the elements and principals of art and design for it’s statement.
Do you have any favourite quotes?
Every art expression is rooted fundamentally in the personality and temperament of the artist. – Han Hofmann
Anything else you’d like to include?
I feel the process of making art is equally as important as the finished piece. It is a spiritual experience to me. I was born with synesthesia so I truly see the world in a very unique way. This also enhances my overall creative process as well.
To learn more about Toronto abstract artist Kirk Sutherland and see more of his paintings, head to his website here.
To discover even more Toronto abstract artists, click here.
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