Interview

Written By Adelé Kotzé

Nina Honigschnabel

Nina Honigschnabel is an Austrian abstract artist whose works explore the emotional depth of color and the silent language of the soul. From early childhood, art has been her way of expressing thoughts and emotions that words often cannot capture. Her intuitive approach and deep sensitivity are reflected in powerful compositions that blend abstraction with organic structures, light, and movement. Nina’s paintings are created using acrylics, texture mediums, spatula techniques, and acrylic pouring. Her series span soulscapes, nature impressions, and portraits – always vibrant, reflective, and emotionally resonant. She sees painting as a meditative process that connects her to the essence of feeling and thought – a true embodiment of her motto: “Colours of Thoughts.” Her works have been exhibited internationally in solo and group exhibitions across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States – including Paris, Dubai, New York, Zurich, Berlin, and Palma de Mallorca.

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

“I’ve been passionate about abstract painting since early childhood. From a very young age, I used colors and forms as my own language, creating soul and fantasy imagery. Over the years, my techniques have evolved - using texture, spatula work, and acrylic pouring to tell deeply emotive color stories.”

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

“My work reflects inner worlds and emotional states. I want to encourage people to pause and connect with themselves. While I don’t directly address current social or political issues, the longing for calm, depth, and authenticity serves as a quiet statement against superficiality and the fast pace of modern life.”

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

“My work is mostly intuitive. I start with a color, an impulse, or an emotion – and let it guide me. The creative process is a dialogue with the subconscious.”

“My paintings are deeply emotional and intuitive, and I always aim to evoke reflection, connection, and a sense of inner movement in the viewer.”

Are there any art world trends you are following?

“I draw inspiration from current trends but don’t follow them blindly. I’m particularly interested in developments in mixed media and experimental techniques that emphasize emotional depth. I also follow the growing movement back to nature and intuitive expression.”

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

“I primarily use acrylics on canvas, often combined with texture paste, ink, or collage elements. I love playing with layers, transparency, and texture – each piece evolves through a multi-layered process.”

 What does your art mean to you?

“Art is a quiet place of truth for me. It’s expression, healing, and freedom all at once. Painting allows me to be fully present and continuously rediscover myself!”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“My favorite artwork is ‘The Cat’ – a vibrant, abstract depiction of a cat. It embodies intuition, freedom, curiosity, and quiet strength. The vivid colors reflect emotions that go beyond words – which is exactly what ‘Colours of Thoughts’ means to me: making thoughts visible through color. While painting it, I was fully present in the moment – every layer carried a feeling, an impulse, a silent thought. The Cat is, to me, an expression of confidence and inner ease.”

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

“I’ve had numerous exhibitions including: a solo exhibition ‘Colours of Thoughts’ (March 2025) – curated by Arteom Gallery, featuring 20 original works in abstraction, nature, and portrait styles; Dubai & Germany Exhibition (February 2025) – a simultaneous international showcase; Billboard Art – New York, USA (March–June 2025) – digital display of my work on a large-scale screen in NYC; Caribbean Islands Exhibition (March 2025) – featured in a curated international show; Nicoleta Gallery – Berlin, Germany (January 2025) – presented works like Blue Emotion and Twillight and Thomson Gallery – Zug, Switzerland (January 2025) – featuring ROUGE; among others.”

 
Adelé Kotzé
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