RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS WITH ~ ZURAB TSERETELI BY PABLO G. VILLAZAN
Today’s session of “Rapid Fire Questions”, Pablo G. Villazan shares with us his Q&A with the famous Georgian sculptor, painter, and architect - Zurab Tsereteli.
- League
So, Ready! Set! Gooooooo!
Who is Zurab Tsereteli?
A creative person.
Did you always want to be an artist?
Yes, already in childhood I dreamed of becoming an artist. My uncle Georgi Nizharadze was a famous artist, he gave me my first lessons. He was a tall man, of great presence, he was very attractive. When he went down the street, the women who passed by would turn to look at him. That was interesting. I thought that if I became an artist I would also be that handsome, but it didn't work ... (laughs) But...well...seriously, it was thanks to my uncle that I discovered the art world and beyond the profession of being an artist, I didn't think about anything else.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Inspiration is given by the sun, nature, loved ones. All this is what gives me energy.
Which artists have the greatest influence on your work?
My teacher was Vasily Shukhaev. He was an amazing teacher. We were fortunate to have him teach at the Tbilisi Academy of Fine Arts. And of course Picasso and Chagall, I had the opportunity to visit the workshops of both artist. Thanks to them, I realized that the artist is absolutely free to choose themes and shapes. There is a creative need: paint, sculpt, don't be afraid to experiment with different genres and techniques.
What is your process to create your work?
I work very fast. Ideas come to me very quickly. Therefore, the main thing is that they do not bother me.
Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
Good light, not too bright or dim! Easel, canvas, paints and brushes ... This is the essential.
What is the meaning behind your artwork?
Probably the most important thing is life, love of life, the beauty that surrounds us and is found in the simplest things. All this has a special value for me and is what I try to show
Imagine that your paintings could talk, what would they say about you?
This artist makes up vertiginous stories and works quickly.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Let him worry less if he is criticized or misunderstood. Time puts everything in its place. Always listen to your heart.
Do you find the social channel’s influence Positive or Negative?
Today there are many new opportunities that allow the artist to expand his audience. It is important that new forms of communication help people to better understand art and the artist. Every day many new features appear, in my opinion the essential thing is to always remain as you are and not fall under the influence of others.
Describe in 3 words how social channels affect you as an artist.
On the one hand, my teachers told me: "create art for art". However, art cannot exist without a spectator. The larger the audience, the better.
What is your dream project?
Actually, I would like to keep it a secret, I don't like to speak too far ahead. However, I will tell you, I am working around the figure of Jesus Christ. It will be a sculpture 300 meters high.
