ARTIST STATEMENT
Mona Lisa - The art of Upcycling
From figurative and representational to complete abstract, creating and innovating fine art in multidisplinary styles and techniques.
Much emphasis is placed on experimentation with used (waste) and new materials and mediums, whilst always striving to be unique.
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
I was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and from a young age showed a keen visual interest in the world around me, encouraged by a strong artistic flair that runs through my family.
While studying the history of art, I was fascinated and inspired by the French Impressionist movement from the 1870’s, and the unique characteristics they introduced into their work - not least the accurate depiction of light and its changing qualities.
Following my studies at (NKA) the Nelson Mandela University in art, photography and graphic design, I pursued a long and successful career in the advertising industry. The variation and creativity of visual material and ideas required in this profession, has certainly influenced my painting and photography significantly. From figurative and representational styles to complete abstract, I create and innovate art in multidisciplinary techniques. Much emphasis is placed on experimentation with used (waste) and new materials and mediums whilst always striving to be relevant and unique. One of my main objectives is to achieve an exceptional standard for myself and my art audience / buyers, who appreciate a high level of creativity and quality in fine art.
To keep a purity and traditional thread in my work (not to mention the enjoyment and challenge) I still regularly paint directly outdoors, ‘en plein air’, to effectively and spontaneously capture a scene with its own particular colours and light at the time. Landscapes dominate my subject matter in this discipline through my love of the outdoors and the beauty in nature - acrylic paint is the main medium I work in for ‘en plain air’ painting.
As with painting, the art of photography holds a special appeal and interest for me. Truly understanding composition, imagery, light and timing are key to mastering this magnificent medium. Capturing that key, fleeting moment on camera is the most challenging and rewarding achievement, for me.
“You don’t make a photograph just with a camera. You bring the act of photography to all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved”. Ansel Adams.
Success I believe is achieving a timelessness in my work, and one in which the collectors and owners of my art pieces never tire of the visual enjoyment experienced.
As a multidisciplinary artist, my different styles and techniques are divided into four brands.
Gavin Larkin / Dushana / Neil / Nivag
I am based in Cape Town, South Africa, and have been practicing as a professional artist for the past three years. At least seventy percent of my work sold to date, through galleries and direct commissions, have been to overseas buyers.
