Artist in conversation: Annemarieke van Peppen
“While I firmly believe that being an artist entails discipline, dedication, and relentless effort, at its core, it's an inherent aspect of one's being—I simply cannot be otherwise”
Annemarieke van Peppen, born in Rotterdam in 1971, is a versatile artist whose journey began at the Academy for Art and Industry (AKI) in Enschede, studying fashion. Her travels through Indonesia, Australia, and Malaysia inspired her diverse artistic style, which includes collages, installations, impact art projects, photography, sculptures, and clothing.
Her work, characterized by the use of materials like symbolic Japanese paper and unbleached cotton, delves into the beauty of the human experience, even in its imperfections. Her series Adventures of a Fluctuating Woman explores personal journeys of self-discovery, encouraging viewers' introspection.
Since renting a new studio in 2014, Annemarieke's practice has flourished, leading to exhibitions both domestically and internationally. Her impact art critically examines social developments and societal pressures, putting ordinary people in the spotlight. Through bold experiments and her multidisciplinary approach, Annemarieke van Peppen remains a compelling figure in contemporary art.
What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
I cannot pinpoint a specific inspiration that led me to pursue artistry; rather, echoing Billy Elliot in the film, "I don't know, I just can't help it." While I firmly believe that being an artist entails discipline, dedication, and relentless effort, at its core, it's an inherent aspect of one's being—I simply cannot be otherwise.
In my work, I'm constantly striving to portray my photographs in a manner that resonates with my essence while embodying a sense of craftsmanship. In an era where everything moves swiftly, and artificial intelligence is poised to play an increasingly significant role, I find it crucial, now more than ever, to engage with tangible materials, to explore, experiment, and get my hands dirty. By immersing myself in this hands-on approach, I deliberately slow down the creative process, allowing myself the space to infuse each piece with my soul.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I consistently gravitate towards the portrayal of human experiences and interactions within an ever-evolving societal landscape. This fascination extends from personal reflections on my own struggles and growth to broader narratives involving communities, such as the Hindus in North Bali, Ukrainian refugees in the Netherlands, or the societal shifts spurred by the pervasive use of smartphones. What captivates me about these subjects is the innate desire to comprehend others as well as myself better. I approach them with a sense of inquiry, devoid of preconceptions or predetermined outcomes, often uncovering surprises and gaining fresh insights along the way.
Considering your background in web design, how has technology influenced or expanded your creative possibilities?
I view my proficiency in web design more as a practical tool that enables me to showcase my work online rather than as a direct influence on my creative process. However, I do acknowledge that it has expanded my reach and accessibility to a broader audience. Nevertheless, I've found myself increasingly frustrated with the perpetual demand to maintain my website and social media presence. It feels like a constant pressure, consuming valuable time that I would rather dedicate to creating new art. Nonetheless, I believe that my background in fashion and web design imparts a subtle, graphic quality to my work. It has subconsciously shaped the way I perceive and approach visual elements, lending a distinctive aesthetic touch to my creations.
What role does intuition play in your artistic decision-making process, and how do you know when a piece is complete?
Intuition is paramount—it serves as the guiding force in my creative journey. Ignoring it would mean telling a story that isn't truly mine, but rather, what I believe others wish to see. This doesn't imply reckless abandon; on the contrary, I deliberate and reflect, striving to remain as authentically true to myself as possible. Knowing when a piece is complete is a deeply intuitive process. It's that moment when you no longer feel the urge to add or subtract anything, when you sit back with a glass of wine, gaze upon your creation, and for a fleeting second, think, "I am a genius!" Yet, that feeling of genius usually fades quickly, and that's for the best. Occasionally, you may never reach that point, and in those instances, I dismantle the piece, discard it, and start anew—a realization that typically arises when I haven't heeded my intuition closely enough.
How would you describe your creative process? Are there specific rituals or routines that you find essential to your artistic practice?
I find it easier to describe my creative process post-completion of a series of works or a project. Upon finishing, I often sink into a sea of uncertainty, questioning my worth and abilities. I seek solace in rest, diving into books, visiting museums, and wandering aimlessly. Gradually, my mind's radar recharges, and new ideas burst forth like an uncontrollable torrent—then, I yearn for the ability to switch off my mind occasionally. That's when I know it's time to clean my workshop, transforming it into a blank canvas. I write down my ideas, select which I find the the most urgent, discuss it with fellow artists, read more about it, research, find the appropriate materials, experiment, dive into the work and make a mess again
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
Feedback can be incredibly valuable at every stage of the creative process. I've surrounded myself with individuals who challenge me, question my decisions, and aren't afraid to speak the truth. Their insights hold particular weight when I find myself doubting the direction I'm taking. Ironically, when their feedback stirs frustration within me, it often indicates they're onto something. However, when I'm confident in my choices, external opinions hold less sway, allowing me to remain true to my artistic intuition.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
For me, it's not about seeking motivation—it's simply the only path forward. Like Billy Elliot, there's no other option. Setbacks are inevitable, but they're also opportunities for growth. I confront them head-on, learn from them, and keep moving forward.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
To be honest, I'm still not entirely sure. It almost sounds too good to be true. However, I've decided that 2024 should be the year I step out of my studio and showcase more of myself, so I'm going for it. We'll see what happens. Every experience is a learning opportunity.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My long-term goals include establishing a new permanent studio space, fostering even more collaborations with fellow artists, and continuing my personal growth and development. I aim to remain dedicated to experimentation and consistently challenge myself, all while prioritizing enjoyment in what I do. Of course, like everyone else, I hope for recognition, but that's something not entirely within my control. All I can do is strive to do my best.
What role does emotion play in your creative process, and and how do you aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from those who view your artworks?
Emotion, much like intuition, holds a significant place in my artistic journey. I believe that by allowing oneself to be vulnerable, you can create images that evoke emotions in others. I can only hope that my work resonates, whether positively or negatively, but that it elicits some kind of response. I'm convinced that can only happen when you pour your soul into your art.
