Interview

Written By Editorial Team

Antonina-Sofia Sociu

Regardless of the path which Antonina-Sofia has taken in this life, her passion for art has always remained present, vital, a red thread in the fabric of her life. As an intuitive, self-taught artist, her very essence lies within the free expression of creation, painting being the language by which she can lay down her emotions, thoughts and inner experiences as a process of personal reconstruction and liberation from social norms. Although vulnerability is not comfortable, Antonina-Sofia is still learning that it is not a sign of weakness, but rather of courage and authenticity, as well as an inexhaustible source of liberation and self-appreciation! Every canvas which she touches and dresses up in color is a transformative journey, a manifesto of the beauty and complexity of human emotions. She firmly believes that each of us has an untapped potential and regardless of age, experience or artistic talent we can unfold and capitalize on our own creative potential.

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“As early as 1995, a first painting transposed on canvas was the initial proof of my inner flame, an omen for the passion that would accompany me throughout my life. Born in enchanting Romania, I lived alongside the vibrant colors and cultural richness of my surroundings. From a young age, I found comfort and expression through art, exploring its depths. Even though I have taken a professional path in a more pragmatic field, in search of illusory security, my fascination for art has never ceased to consume me from within, seducing and inspiring me. Over time, I discovered that art is the language through which I can express my emotions, thoughts, and inner experiences in an authentic and profound way.”

What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?

“My artwork aims to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and offer glimpses into the intricacies of the human experience. I rationalize the mental projection onto the canvas, subtly transferring emotions into the space of the created image through a process of abstract expressionism, in which personal experiences are highlighted through a total connection and synthesized in stages until they acquire that universality that confers significance and value. Although my main focus is on personal expression and storytelling, I believe that art inherently carries the potential to reflect and comment on the diverse perspectives of life as a whole. Through symbolism and metaphor, my pieces may touch upon universal themes such as love, loss, identity, and resilience.”

Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?

“In my creative process, I tend to rely more on improvisation than on prior planning. Although I might sometimes have a general idea or a source of inspiration for a piece, I enjoy keeping myself open to spontaneous exploration and experimentation on the canvas. I believe that the most authentic and meaningful artistic expressions emerge when I allow myself to explore and express naturally, without predefined constraints. Thus, each work becomes an exciting journey full of surprises, and the creative process turns into a way of discovering new and unexpected aspects of myself and of art.”

“My artwork aims to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and offer glimpses into the intricacies of the human experience.”

Are there any art world trends are you following?

“While I appreciate and draw inspiration from various art movements and trends, I tend to prioritize authenticity and individual expression in my work. Rather than adhering to specific trends, I aim to create art that resonates with my innermost thoughts and feelings, allowing my unique voice to shine through each piece.”

What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?

“I employ a diverse range of materials and techniques in my artistic practice, adapting them to suit the specific vision and emotion I wish to convey in each piece. From acrylic and oil paints to mixed media and collage, I explore various mediums to create textures, layers, and depth in my artwork. Additionally, I often incorporate elements of symbolism, abstraction, and surrealism to enrich the narrative and visual impact of my compositions.”

 What does your art mean to you?

“For me, art is a profound means of self-realization, introspection, and connection, serving as a gateway to explore the depths of my emotions, thoughts, and experiences, offering a sanctuary where I can freely express and reflect upon the complexities of the human condition. Each artwork carries a part of my soul, incorporating moments of vulnerability, strength, and growth. I like to believe that through my creations, I manage to capture aspects of life from a perspective that cleverly combines psychological analysis with the aesthetic transposition of the profound themes I highlight.”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“My favorite artwork is ‘The Scream’ by Edvard Munch. Its raw emotional intensity and haunting imagery resonate deeply with me, reflecting the universal human experience of existential angst and despair. The vibrant colors, distorted figures, and evocative symbolism captivate me, inviting introspection and contemplation on the fragility of life and the tumultuous nature of existence.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“The Art3F exhibition in Paris, the autumn edition from September 22 to 24, 2023, was not just a destination for me, but also a moment to celebrate my artistic journey abroad and my 44th anniversary a series of ‘moments’ with a vast spectrum of personal experiences, emotions, and feelings. The Universe gave me the opportunity to feel a deep gratitude and blessing in a place where art was at the center of attention, and beauty shine in every corner. It was like a gift on my path to Becoming. The preparation for the exhibition itself offered me a mix of conflicting emotions. The stress of organizing the trip and the exhibition in minute detail, along with the anticipation of the exhibition itself, deeply challenged me. My journey to and from Paris, alone in a 3.5-ton camper van, 7 meters long and 3.2 meters high, revealed aspects of myself that I still look back on with exuberance and pride. It was a state of harmony in a ‘small’ refuge on four wheels, a ‘silent mentor’ that taught me to trust my own creative strength and provided me, along with independence, a connection to myself and to nature - a space where my paintings, music, and thoughts were my loyal companions. Sometimes, all it takes is a journey with an open heart to discover the unexpected resources of inspiration and power that lie within us. Thus, Paris was for me not only a charming city where I exhibited my work but also a powerful metaphor for personal transformation, an essential lesson about not sacrificing my authenticity to meet others' expectations or conform to predetermined patterns. Paris reinforced my belief in expressing my own vision courageously and following my passions in complete harmony with my authentic self. I exhibited with a heart full of gratitude. The series of paintings I felt viscerally and named ‘Becoming,’ with canvases where I still find myself in every brushstroke and shade, marked the beginning of my artistic journey abroad, a series that brought to the forefront echoes of the passion of my untamed soul. I was grateful for every experience, whether a beacon of light or a life lesson; all contributed valuable insights to who I am today. In a world rich in colors and forms, where souls continually manifest in darkness and light, I hope this story inspires other souls to discover their own potential, their own Becoming, and explore the power deep within themselves.”

 
Editorial Team
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