Interview
Aurelia Istinah
Born in Jawa, Indonesia, Aurelia is an artist and florist. She started painting while in Bali island. Aurelia moved to Canada in 2013, where she took a painting class from a local artist and an informal art school.
In 2014, Aurelia participated in an exhibition in Montreal, where she won the Host Choice award. Since then, Aurelia has participated in several solo and group exhibitions.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’m a self-taught artist and florist from Indonesia. While living in Bali, I fell in love with the culture and beauty of Bali Island. With help from a local art teacher, I picked up my first paintbrush. When I moved to Canada, I was amazed by the beauty of the four seasons, from winter to fall. The changing seasons were my greatest source of inspiration. I see the leaves changing colors during fall, and the snow like millions of mini cotton balls falling from the air, and I’m filled with joy. I love Spring and Summer with the flowers blooming everywhere, producing a natural fragrance, and the joy of all kinds of beautiful birds singing. I hold onto every moment of what I see and feel and I embrace the beauty of nature, holding it in my heart. This is where my inspiration to create my art comes from.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“There is no social or political involvement in my art. It’s just something that comes from my heart. It’s simply beauty and a reflection of my peaceful mind.”
Which current art world trends are you following?
“I love looking at art magazines on Instagram and reading the Artsper Magazine blog, where I admire some great artists and their works.”
“My art means a lot to me. It is what I use to escape into my own world, into my little secret garden. While in my garden, I let my imagination run free.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“When I start my work, I have an idea of what I want to see. As I go along though, I let go of my original idea and start to improvise.”
What process, materials, techniques, etc., do you use to create your artwork?
“When I started painting, I used oil. Then I challenged myself to try watercolors. Now, I work with acrylic. But sometimes I mix materials when working on a commissioned piece, depending on the request.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“My favorite artwork is by Van Gogh. His work has inspired millions of people in the world, and I am one of them. Even with my minimal education, I still hold onto a big dream, I believe with effort and determination everything is possible, and there will be a space in this world for me to show what I can do.
When I viewed Van Gogh’s work in Montreal, which was showing in 3D digital images. I found it amazing. He paints with full strokes, following no rules, with no hesitation. It all comes straight from his heart. This is how he expresses his feelings. He captures every moment, and transforms it to art so we can enjoy it today. Every painting Van Gogh created tells a story.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I have participated in the following exhibitions:
2022:
Virtual Show with Artists in Montréal2020:
Exhibition at La Maison Trestler, Quebec.2019:
Group Exhibition at Kirkland Library, Montreal.2017:
Autumn Exhibition by Beaconsfied Artist Association, Montreal.
Global League Montreal Art Center Square.
Group Exhibition by Women Art Society of Montreal.
Exhibition Mont-Royal Montreal.
Indonesia Festival at Horticulture, Landowne park, Ottawa. Sponsored by Embassy of Indonesia.
Group exhibition at Gallery Point Claire, Montreal.2016:
Group exhibition sponsored by TD Bank Montreal.
Group exhibition at Arts Premiere Notre-Dame Lachine, Montreal.
Solo exhibition at Baie -D’urfei, Montreal.
Indonesia Arts Festival at City Hall Ottawa. Sponsored by Embassy of Indonesia.
Montreal Art Center, Juried art exhibition ‘Square.
TD South Asia Art Festival at City Hall Ottawa.
Holiday fundraiser by SAW Gallery in Ottawa.’Sketch’.2015:
Group artist exhibition ‘From Natural to Abstract’ by the Women Art Society of Montreal.
14th Annual Mount Royal Exhibition, Montreal, ‘Point of View’.
Holcim Gallery at Milton Art Center, Toronto ‘The Joy of the Chance’.2014:
Art Exposition by Beaconsfied Artis Association.Mount Royal, 15th Annual exhibition.Awards:
Exhibition in Montreal in 2014. Won the Host Choice award.”
Website: Saatchi Art
Instagram: @arnj_arts
