George Condo | Mental States | Hayward Gallery

TL;DR

Artist discusses influences, from old masters to contemporary art, creating unique portraits that challenge perception.

Transcript

having the most impact on me was conceptual art from the period before the 80s and the 70s and I thought a lot about Duchamp and I thought about Deschamps found objects and I thought the idea of creating a painting that was sort of a simulated old master painting like a fake old masters while I was calling them that and then presented as if I found... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🎨 The artist draws inspiration from conceptual art, Duchamp, and old masters, leading to a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques.
• 🤯 Through exaggeration and subtlety in features, the artist conveys deep emotions and inner states of mind in their portraits.
• 🧑‍🎨 By treating paintings as found objects and incorporating unexpected elements, the artist challenges viewers to question established art norms.
• 🧑‍🎨 The artist aims to create portraits that reflect their unique style while honoring historical figures like the Queen with playful variations.
• 😚 Each artwork showcases intricate details that can be interpreted as abstract from a distance but reveal a different story up close.
• 👻 The artist's expanding canvas concept allows for a stream of conscious creation, incorporating treasures and imaginary characters to engage viewers.
• 🧑‍🎨 Playful color compositions and chess-inspired themes add depth and intrigue to the artist's portrayal of iconic figures.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the artist blend elements of old master paintings with contemporary art in their work?

The artist combines the techniques of old master painting with modern concepts, creating portraits that challenge traditional perceptions of art by infusing them with contemporary elements.

Q: What role do emotions and inner states of mind play in the artist's portraiture?

The artist uses exaggerated features and subtle details to convey deep emotions and inner thoughts of the subjects, blurring the boundaries between representation and abstraction.

Q: Why does the artist create portraits that resemble found objects?

By presenting paintings as found objects, the artist prompts viewers to reconsider how art is perceived, leading to a deeper exploration of traditional and contemporary artistic expressions.

Q: How does the artist approach the portrayal of historical figures, such as the Queen, in their unique style?

The artist approaches iconic figures like the Queen with a playful yet respectful attitude, infusing their portraits with elements that challenge traditional expectations and showcase a personal artistic vision.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The artist reflects on being inspired by conceptual art, Duchamp, and old master paintings, creating simulated masterpieces with a contemporary twist.

• Through exaggerating features but maintaining realism, the artist conveys inner emotions and states of mind in portraits, blurring the line between representational and abstract art.

• Treating paintings as found objects and infusing them with unexpected elements, the artist challenges viewers to question perceptions of traditional art.