Interview
Lucas Stoffel
Lucas Stoffel (b. 1978, Dubuque, IA) is an artist recognized by GLAAD as a top LGBTQ+ artist. He was the recipient of the Starving Artist Award, and the featured artist for the amFar Rocks Benefit for AIDS research which was displayed at the Puck Building. Stoffel challenges the natural aesthetic and tradition of fine art within a digital age, merging his technical graphic design skills with a variety of mixed media. Each piece begins in Stoffel’s photography, which is composed and re-rendered digitally before finally being painted with acrylic on canvas. His color theory and large scale canvases invite curiosity and exploration.
Most recently, his fascination with technology has led him to transform his work into multiple NFT projects. He earned a degree in graphic design and fine art from Iowa State University before studying in Paris. He went on to spend over 15 years regularly traveling Southeast Asia where he broadened his exploration of religious and traditional cultural expressions into his work. Stoffel, a resident of New York since 2001, is an avid traveler who has photographed over 30 countries and spends winters researching new work throughout Asia.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I obtained a bachelor's degree in graphic design and fine art from Iowa State University. In 2001, I relocated to New York City, where I embarked on a career in art and design. Taking a year sabbatical in 2003, I had the incredible opportunity to study in Paris, which marked the beginning of my journey into creating pop art and mixed media pieces. For the following 15 years, I dedicated myself to extensive research on the cultural and religious traditions of Southeast Asia while working as a travel photographer. Through my photography, I strived to capture the essence of these traditions and translate them into vibrant, large-scale canvases that immerse viewers in a captivating and colorful new world.”
What inspires you?
“The ways in which this world has created beauty through devotion to the unknown is what inspires me the most. I am fascinated by society's interpretations of God, and how we infuse dance, song, and devotion with such profound meaning, even for something or someone intangible. My goal is to convey these ideas through visual art. Not only do I strive to interpret the cultural significance of various religions and traditions, but I also aim to challenge viewers to question the very essence of "who or what is God?"”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“Translating the complexities of multiple religions through the language of pop art presents its own set of challenges. My aim is to promote an inclusive understanding of diverse belief systems by exploring Taoism, Hinduism, and Confucianism. I strive to create practical and relatable representations of alternate gods that resonate with an American audience. Through my artwork, I invite viewers to reconsider their perspectives on spirituality, fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers between different belief systems. Ultimately, my goal is to bring forth the beauty of eastern religions and nurture a deeper understanding among western audiences. Helping everyone to see that although we may worship a pantheon of gods, our core beliefs are really not so different.”
“The ways in which this world has created beauty through devotion to the unknown is what inspires me the most.”
How would you describe your work?
“My artwork is a vibrant and colorful reflection of contemporary aesthetics, embracing the essence of pop art with a touch of simplicity akin to Andy Warhol's style. I create large scale visually captivating pieces that command attention through a series of bold colors, dynamic compositions, and clean lines. Because I was trained as a photographer and designer, my work has a very graphic impact, it invites viewers to engage with its striking visual appeal while conveying an accessible modern sensibility.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama, and KAWS, have greatly influenced my artistic journey, their inspiration can be seen vividly in the color palettes and stylistic choices I incorporate into my work. Drawing inspiration from their bold and vibrant aesthetics, I work to infuse my creations with a similar sense of dynamism and visual impact.”
What is your creative process like?
“Everything in my collection is deeply rooted in my photography, which has garnered recognition in esteemed publications like The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and Vanity Fair. My artistic process begins with my photographs, which serve as the foundation for each piece. Through digital manipulation and reinterpretation, I transform the original image before bringing it to life on canvas with acrylic paints. With a keen focus on color theory and a penchant for working on large-scale canvases, I aim to evoke curiosity and invite viewers to explore the intricate details within each composition. More recently, my fascination with technology has driven me to venture into the realm of NFT projects, transforming my artwork into digital collectibles that push the boundaries of traditional art formats.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“In my perspective, my role in society is to inspire and foster beauty and unity within the world. It is about exploring our differences while embracing the shared values that bind us together. I am not concerned with whether a person believes in Christ or Buddha; what truly matters to me is whether they believe in compassion. If my artwork can bridge the gaps created by cultural and religious divides and enlighten audiences about the profound beauty that surrounds us, then I believe I have fulfilled my purpose. My aim is to interpret the world through my artistic lens and hope that others can recognize the similarities that connect us all, ultimately promoting understanding and harmony.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I was the recipient of the Starving Artist Award, and the featured artist for the amFar Rocks Benefit for AIDS research which was displayed at the Puck Building. My work was highlighted at AM New York’s Premiere Art Rocks event, and I was featured on the cover of Next Magazine, which brought me many new followers, including Dylan’s Candy Bar, who commissioned me to work on a confection-inspired collection. My work has been shown at the Art Directors Club, The Prince George Gallery, GalleryBar, and New World Stages, among other venues in New York City.”
