Artist JUDI HARVEST makes her imagination come to life through her stunning artworks and for the latest edition of DESIGN SCENE (out now in PRINT and DIGITAL) she sits down with our Editor KATARINA DJORIC to talk about her creative process, starting new projects and inspiration.
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When and how did you decide to become an artist?
I don’t think I really decided, I believe I was born this way and then my passion for art and creating evolved with time, exposure to great art, travel and experimentation with materials. I have a Master in Fine Arts and painting was my preferred medium. I now work in Murano glass, chicken wire, gold leaf, porcelain and videos.
How do you keep your creative spark? What keeps you fascinated?
My creative spark is constantly growing. My work is concerned with the fragility of life and the search for beauty. I research subjects that spark my interest. I became involved with Honeybees in 2005 when I read about Colony Collapse Disorder and I have continued with this interest for the past 12 years. Nature and science fascinate me. The material of glass further emphasizes the fragility aspect.
What kind of impact do you want to make with your art? What is the message?
My goal is to give visitors to my exhibitions, food for thought. I hope people will become more aware of the plight and importance of the Honeybee, the beauty of Murano glass and the danger of pesticides. I do this through my artworks and videos. I believe art has the power to transform thoughts and give insights. I also feel it a responsibility I have with my work. It also must be beautiful and well made!
What is the most important aspect when you work on a new piece? What is the one thing you care about the most?
The most important aspect is for me to challenge myself and create something I have not done or seen before. I care the most about not harming the environment and when possible, to improve it and have a positive impact. In 2013 I created a garden for Honeybees in Murano on an abandoned field. I installed 4 Honeybee hives there in 2013. Now I have 6 hives, nectarines, pomegranates, rosemary and roses where only broken glass and a rusty tractor once resided.
You work in various fields of art, such as sculpture, painting and video. How do you decide which medium to use?
I use them all. I believe art is about no boundaries or constraints. I feel the same about life, it is all one piece.
What are the most memorable responses you had to your work so far?
I love when visitors or collectors are surprised. I am aware of many new gardens for honeybees since my show in 2013 in Venice for the Biennale, titled “Denatured: Honeybees + Murano”. It is always an honor to receive press about my work. It was remarkable to see my art in the New York Times on 2 pages, and I am grateful that Design Scene has chosen to feature me. Occasionally I receive emails or hand written notes when someone is moved by my work. That is memorable and keep all these notes.
Do you draw inspiration from other art forms such as film, music or literature?
Yes. I love good films, theater and reading anything about nature, especially bees. I also love dancing. My current video for my upcoming exhibition is titled “Waggle Dance”
Honeybees dance to communicate. I believe dancing is a great language. I always have music on when I work, generally it is Jazz.
Who are your favorite artists?
Matisse, Sigmar Polke, Richter and Tiziano. Different time periods but all inspirational.
What work of art do you wish you owned?
Matisse, The Red Studio.
What are you working on right now, is there a project you are currently obsessed with?
I am obsessed with Seeds. I am currently installing my exhibition during the Venice Biennale titled “Propagation: Bees + Seeds.” It will be at Palazzo Tiepolo Passi May 10- November 26, 2017.
It is part of a 2 person show “Beauty and the Beast” My work is the Beauty part, thank goodness.
More can be seen on the official website, www.Judiharvest.com, and on Judi‘s instagram @judi.harvest
Originally published in DESIGN SCENE Magazine July 2017 issue, get it now in PRINT or DIGITAL – Plus 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO DESIGN SCENE for $24.90.
