Interview
Antje Petershagen
Antje has been a painter since childhood. As an adolescent, she was not allowed to become a professional artist, but this did not stop her from taking courses and workshops to gain more knowledge and techniques in art.
Nowadays she learns much from YouTube and has taken several masterclasses given by famous illustrators and artists. Although she is a self taught artist without any degree in art, she feels confident as an artist, letting her soul do the talking.
What is your name and background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My name is Antje Ulrike Petershagen, born March 25, 1962. I have always been in love with creating. When I turned 14, I got my first watercolour set and I had no idea how to use it. I experimented and fell in love with watercolour - the slow movement of the paint and the unexpected outcome. Coming from a conservative family background, there was no acceptance of becoming an artist. So after finishing high school I went to University, where I began studying archeology and history of art, and then switched to medical school. After finishing my medical degree I specialized and worked in several clinics. During all these years I would continue being creative. I took courses in watercolouring, photography (developing black and white photos myself), I tried ceramics, and created objects made from whatever I found on my hikes through the woods.
However, I could not practice painting or sketching on a daily basis, as work took a lot of my time. I followed my plan to stop working in a clinic and start a day job which would allow me more time for my creativity. This way I could work less over the years and begin to create more.
I was never an outgoing person who liked showing myself to the public. But step by step I became active on Instagram and gained some followers. Of course it is a slow process. I started to show my art, I took workshops to have fun and explore art and I started writing three books over the last few years. Two are illustrated by myself.”
“I want to get people curious about who they really are, to explore life, and to realize the connection between creativity and spirituality.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My medical background, in combination with my long time yoga and meditation practice, and my interest in old Indian philosophy help me to inspire, heal, and teach through my art. I create mindful art with a message to go inward, to get to know who you really are. A kind of empowerment to live life instead of letting life live you. I want to get people curious about who they really are, to explore life, and to realize the connection between creativity and spirituality. Our roots in Mother Nature, my biggest inspiration.”
Which current art world trends are you following?
“I never follow a trend; I love the artwork of my fellow artists but I do what is authentic for me, I paint from my soul.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is my life - I can express who I am and what I believe in. I can express my soul.”
What process, materials, techniques, etc., do you use to create your artwork?
“I love watercolours the most, in combination with handmade paper in large formats. When I need some fun creative time for myself, I do gel plate printing, collect materials from Mother Nature, collage work or paint with acrylics. In the last few months I have started to experiment with watercolours on wooden panels and I am very much in love with this process.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“I love my series on Lord Ganesha – it expresses all: love, faith, devotion, going beyond, and finding yourself.”
Instagram: @antjepetershagen
Other: ARTFLAKES
