The interviews are conducted by VB Contemporary's director, Vian Borchert. Besides being a multidisciplinary noted international artist. Borchert has been a writer and art critic for over a decade contributing with art articles in a national online newspaper within the U.S.A. Borchert gets called upon to cover and write reviews for major retrospectives and exhibitions in world-class American museums. Borchert is also the Art Lead / curator of the art segment for "Oxford Public Philosophy Journal" for the Turn 5 issue - "Oxford Public Philosophy" is a philosophy journal based at Oxford University, UK. The journal is a space for critically questioning what philosophy is and how we're doing it, in form and content.
Interview with Irfan Ajvazi
Irfan Ajvazi
About the artist:
Irfan Ajvazi is a visual artist, sculptor, draftsman, photographer, and printmaker based in Germany working in the field of painting, sculpture , drawing and new media. His artworks can be described as minimalist and intimate, as he investigates the concept of presence. Irfan works in the media of installation/sculpture, photography and drawing.
Tell us about your "Beginnings", how did you start your artist journey? When did you know that you wanted to become an artist? How did your childhood influence your creative career path?
My childhood was enriched with artistic influences, especially from my father who ignited my passion for art by gifting me my first set of paints at seven. Surrounded by creativity at home, I found joy in capturing the world around me through sketches and experimentation with different mediums. By the tender age of ten, I was certain that my future lay in pursuing a career in the arts.
My work is very inspired by famous artists such as Carvaggio, Rembrandt, Edward Hopper, Peter Doig, and John Currin.
Also, my journey as an artist was sparked by my childhood fascination with colors and shapes, nurtured within a creatively stimulating environment. These early experiences laid the groundwork for my artistic endeavors.
The Destination
Walk us through your day and creative process? What does a day for "Irfan Ajvazi" look like? Where do you find inspiration in the area by which you reside?
In regards to my daily routine and inspiration: Living in Friedrichshafen, Germany, my daily routine is a harmonious blend of structure and spontaneity that feeds my creative soul. Mornings begin with a leisurely stroll through the dynamic streets of Friedrichshafen, savouring the scent of freshly brewed coffee. I draw inspiration from the urban landscape, seizing moments with my camera en route to the local bakery for a delightful croissant. Additionally, each day, I dive into my creative process, whether I'm sketching, painting, or exploring new techniques. Inspiration springs from the natural beauty and cultural richness of my surroundings, shaping my artistic vision.
As a visual artist, what have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your career? And, what have been your best achievements for you personally and professionally?
As a visual artist, I've encountered challenges in navigating the competitive art world and defining my unique style. Yet, overcoming these obstacles and witnessing my work connect with others has been deeply fulfilling on both a personal and professional level.
As I envision the future, my ambition is to showcase my art in prestigious galleries and cultural hubs worldwide, sharing my unique perspective with a global audience. While the art world offers boundless opportunities for creative expression, it's not without its disappointments.