Interview
Sara Black
Sara was born in Accra, Ghana, in 1995. She obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. Then, she moved to Karlsruhe in 2022 to pursue her Postgraduate Degree in Fine Arts at the State Academy of Fine Arts. Currently, she resides and works in Karlsruhe, where she balances her artistic practice with a career as a freelance English teacher. Her art practice consists of two distinct parts. The first involves a mix of conceptual works that combine techniques from painting, drawing, image transfer, and photography prints. These works challenge traditional mediums and explore innovative intersections of form. The second part of her practice focuses on surreal figurative works, which are deeply personal and born out of her emotional interactions with people and life experiences.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey in art began with my father’s influence. He practiced art in his youth but couldn’t pursue it as a career. We kept some of his old paintings and sculptures at home, and even though I didn’t fully understand them, I felt a deep connection to the creative process. During a challenging time in my childhood, drawing became my escape, allowing me to express myself by sketching anime characters and scenes from Christian children’s books. Growing up in a religious household with my parents serving as pastors, I often felt out of place. I was not the best student in class coming home with the best grades, but creating art was a source of comfort, especially when I saw how proud my dad was of my work. It became one of the few ways we connected, as he encouraged me to learn about the old masters and refine my skills. In 2015, I enrolled at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, where my understanding of art evolved. I became interested in contemporary and experimental art, realizing how art could convey complex ideas and emotions. It became a tool for expressing experiences I found difficult to share otherwise, turning my work into a therapeutic outlet. Through this journey, my passion for art grew, driven by a desire to go beyond my father’s achievements and create art that could resonate with others. This put me on the path of exploring art as both a therapeutic tool, and a space for creative experiments.”
What inspires you?
“As an eclectic artist, it might be easier to answer the question, ‘What doesn’t inspire you?’ My inspiration comes from everything around me - my thoughts, what I see, hear, and experience all shape my work. My art practice is a space where I explore any topic that captures my interest, often in bold, unconventional, and experimental ways, free from the constraints of strict definitions. My creative process is deeply tied to my personality and temperament. For instance, I am an overthinker with a tendency to fixate on intriguing ideas. When something captures my attention, I become driven to understand it fully - sometimes to the point of sleepless nights. This obsessive curiosity feeds directly into my work, turning ideas into art until I can release them from my mind. My work is also a reflection of my life experiences and personal journey. This is often expressed through surreal and figurative paintings, which have become my way of processing the world around me.
My practice unfolds in two distinct ways:
1. Expressing the Intangible: Some of my art serves as a channel to express personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions that I find difficult to articulate with words. These often emerge as surreal paintings - visual manifestations of feelings that linger with me until I paint them out. It’s my way of making sense of complex emotions and dreams, translating them into a visual form that others can experience.
2. Exploring Ideas Through Experimentation: The second part of my practice is more academic and experimental, where I explore artistic theories and techniques. Here, I delve into my interests in fields like architecture, engineering, literature, and puzzles, integrating them into my art. This part of my work involves pushing the boundaries of traditional methods, such as combining painting, drawing, image transfer, and photography. The themes I explore vary depending on what captivates me at the moment, from trains and human connection to the intricate structure of trees and forests. I thrive when I have something new to solve, a concept to unravel, or a challenge to tackle. Like many artists, I prefer working on multiple projects simultaneously, which keeps my mind engaged and my creativity flowing. Currently, I am working on a series of paintings as a way to process the trauma of my father’s passing, while also delving into the concept of drawing through the structural forms of trees.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The themes I explore in my work are often closely tied to my personal interests and experiences, evolving naturally over time. Currently, I am delving into themes of mental illness and trauma, influenced by my family’s deeply personal experiences with these challenges. My work in this area is a way to process and reflect on those difficult encounters, turning them into visual expressions that others can connect with. I am also drawn to the natural world, particularly trees and forests. To me, every tree has its own unique personality, with branches that tell a story. This theme has become a way for me to explore ideas of individuality, growth, and connection to nature. Additionally, I have explored the theme of trains, which holds a special significance for me. Growing up in Ghana, trains were not a part of my everyday life. However, since moving to Germany, they have become a space where I spend much of my time. This shift has prompted me to explore the sense of transition and movement, both physically and metaphorically, through this theme. My thematic interests are ever-changing and fluid, without a single underlying message running through all my work. I don’t see myself as a messenger; rather, I am an observer with an eccentric perspective that I wish to share. My goal is not necessarily to make others agree with my viewpoint, but to offer a way of seeing that might resonate with them. If a message does emerge, I create a body of work around it, but so far, I’ve found more fulfillment in sharing my opinions and perspectives, allowing the viewer to draw their own conclusions.”
How would you describe your work?
“I describe my work as a dynamic blend of photography, painting, drawing, and image transfer, creating a hybrid style that allows me to explore a wide range of ideas and techniques. This combination of mediums enables me to push the boundaries of traditional art forms, creating pieces that are both intricate and layered. Technically, my hybrid approach focuses heavily on line, form, and the illusion of space. My layered techniques - dyeing, painting, image transfer, and drawing - enable me to highlight even the faintest details within an image. The process of layering adds depth, allowing me to blend form and space seamlessly, resulting in works that feel both solid and ethereal. A distinctive feature of my work is my use of colorful outlines, which serve as a tool to guide the viewer’s gaze. These outlines allow me to emphasize specific elements or details within the piece, directing attention to what I want to reveal while maintaining the subtlety of the overall composition. It gives me the freedom to subtly alter reality, bending perspectives without fundamentally changing the core essence of the objects I depict. This control over how viewers perceive my work is, to me, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my practice - creating art that is at once grounded and fantastical, inviting viewers into a world that exists between reality and imagination.
On the other hand, a key element of my oil paintings is the use of pictorial symbolism. Every object or element within my compositions has a symbolic reference, acting as a visual language through which I communicate deeper meanings. I draw from my fascination with darker themes and horror, subtly weaving eerie motifs or unsettling atmospheres into my art. This adds a layer of tension and mystery, as viewers encounter elements that challenge or provoke their emotions. My paintings are also influenced by my love for science fiction, which allows me to bring a sense of the surreal and the unnatural into my compositions. I often incorporate elements like alien-like structures, futuristic spaceships, or scenes featuring giant, colorful moons. These sci-fi touches transport my work beyond the everyday, creating a visual experience that is as imaginative as it is thought-provoking. They allow me to build dreamlike worlds that give room to express my thoughts and feelings.”
Which artists influence you most?
“The artists who influence me most are those who push the boundaries of traditional art forms, often working in disciplines outside of my own. I am particularly inspired by artists who create in fields like architecture, design, and experimental art, where their work transforms the way we interact with the spaces around us. One of my greatest influences is Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an artist and architect whose work constantly challenges the conventional approach to design and form. His buildings, with their vibrant colors, organic forms, and rejection of straight lines, feel like a glimpse into a future that is both imaginative and human-centered. Hundertwasser’s work resonates with me because it brings the surreal into everyday life, creating spaces that seem to exist between reality and a fantastical vision of the future - much like the worlds I try to evoke in my own work.
When I encounter Hundertwasser’s architecture, I feel as though we are one step closer to the futuristic settlements that often appear in science fiction movies. His structures don’t just challenge our perceptions of what a building should be; they invite us to dream about what is possible. I am drawn to the way he integrates art and nature into his architecture, making each building feel like a living organism, alive with color and movement. It’s this innovative approach that inspires me to think beyond the boundaries of my own practice, incorporate architectural elements into my art and explore the mechanics of forms, structures, and how space can be reimagined.
In addition to Friedensreich Hundertwasser, I am also deeply inspired by Theo Jansen, whose innovative approach to art and engineering captivates me. Jansen is renowned for his movable skeletal structures, known as Kinetic Sculptures, which are designed to walk on the wind like creatures of the beach. Watching these sculptures in motion is a mesmerizing experience; they seem to breathe with life, embodying the perfect blend of art and mechanical ingenuity. Jansen’s work ignites my imagination and motivates me to push the boundaries of my own thinking. His ability to transform simple materials like industrial materials into complex, moving sculptures inspires me to reconsider how I approach materials in my own practice. I find his exploration of movement and form particularly fascinating, as it challenges traditional notions of static art and invites viewers to engage with the work in a dynamic way. Through his creations, Jansen encourages me to see industrial materials not just as a medium for painting or sculpture, but as a versatile material that can embody life and motion. His work prompts me to think about how I can incorporate movement or the illusion of motion into my own pieces, experimenting with the physical properties of materials to create art that interacts with the viewer in unexpected ways. Ultimately, Jansen’s innovative spirit and relentless exploration of the relationship between art, nature, and engineering resonate deeply with me. His work serves as a constant reminder that art can transcend conventional boundaries and encourage us to dream big, inspiring me to approach my own artistic journey with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to experiment.”
“Every object or element within my compositions has a symbolic reference, acting as a visual language through which I communicate deeper meanings.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is an ongoing journey that unfolds every day. I’m constantly jotting down ideas and thoughts, driven by a mind that perpetually wonders about ‘what ifs.’ My journal is filled with sketches and concepts, each one a seed of inspiration waiting for its moment to be explored. When a particularly pressing idea captures my attention, I tend to fixate on it for days or even months. This is especially true for my purely imaginative compositions, where the thinking process can be more time-consuming. I find myself contemplating how to begin, ensuring that every aspect feels right in conveying the emotions I want to express. For me, the journey is often more significant than the end result; it’s about how my feelings and opinions manifest in the images I create.
As I delve into an idea, I take the first step and, as I work, new ‘what if’ thoughts begin to emerge. For instance, ‘What if I dye the material first instead of painting?’ or ‘What if I don’t use dye at all?’ Each question leads me to explore further, resulting in a series of works that evolve organically. I don’t expect everyone to appreciate them, but the act of exploration allows my mind to release its obsessions. I find joy in the repetitive actions and processes involved in my work; they engage my mind and occupy my thoughts in a way that helps me navigate my more unpleasant feelings. Sometimes, I’m apprehensive about my thoughts, so I prefer to stay busy. The execution of an idea can take days, and there are times when I need to step away from a piece to gain perspective. When I return, I assess whether the mood or feeling I intended to communicate still resonates. If something feels off, it can take me a while to pinpoint the issue. Often, solutions come to me unexpectedly - in the middle of the night or as the first thought when I wake up. My creative process is a blend of excitement and mental exhaustion. If the emotions aren’t conveyed accurately, I know I’ll struggle to find peace until the piece is resolved. Inspiration can spark from a fleeting moment or an epiphany - sometimes, a simple glance at a scene can reveal the elements necessary to express how I feel. Other times, the process begins with a deeper exploration of my experiences, prompting me to gather images that might best capture my emotions. However, I rarely have a complete image in mind before I start. Instead, I embrace the uncertainty, allowing the work to develop naturally as I engage with it.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of an artist in society is not a fixed or singular concept; rather, it is fluid and varies greatly depending on individual aspirations and the unique fulfillment each artist seeks. For some, art serves as a powerful medium for conveying specific messages or ideas. In this sense, the artist’s role becomes that of a communicator, using their craft to engage audiences and provoke thought. If an artist is passionate about social issues or environmental concerns, their work may aim to raise awareness and inspire action, thereby positioning them as advocates or activists within their communities.
Conversely, other artists may find their purpose in exploring personal narratives or emotional experiences, creating work that resonates on an individual level rather than aiming to convey a particular message. In this light, the artist’s role is more introspective, focused on self-expression and the exploration of identity, human experiences, and the complexities of life. This personal journey can deeply impact audiences, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and emotion I believe that an artist’s role parallels that of individuals in other professions. Just as doctors, educators, and scientists contribute their expertise to society, artists share their perspectives and insights through creativity. This shared contribution is vital, as it enriches the cultural landscape and fosters a greater understanding of the human experience. However, what makes an artist’s role particularly unique is the potential to bridge gaps in understanding and communication. In this regard, I feel that it is an artist’s responsibility to illuminate creative ways of thinking and to encourage audiences to see the world from different angles. Artists can draw attention to overlooked details, offering fresh perspectives that highlight the sensibilities and sensitivities of life. By doing so, they not only challenge societal norms but also inspire others to question, explore, and engage with their surroundings in more meaningful ways.
Ultimately, an artist’s role in society encompasses a broad spectrum of possibilities. Whether they choose to advocate for change, explore personal narratives, or simply create things that are aesthetically pleasing, the impact of their work can be profound. Art has the power to connect individuals, foster empathy, and ignite conversation, making it an essential element of our collective experience. In embracing this multifaceted role, artists contribute to a richer, more diverse society that values creativity and innovation.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“One of the most significant exhibitions I have participated in was the culmination of a two-month residency program, during which we engaged in a collaborative artistic exploration. This residency brought together a diverse group of individuals, all of whom shared a common thread of migration stories or backgrounds - it was organized by the WEBS Collective. The experience not only allowed us to delve into our personal narratives but also fostered meaningful discussions about belonging and identity in the context of our varied experiences.
Throughout the residency, we dedicated our time to researching and exploring a wide range of intriguing topics that resonated with our shared experiences. The opportunity to interact with individuals from different countries and walks of life enriched my perspective and deepened my understanding of the universal human need for connection and belonging. Each participant contributed their unique insights, allowing us to collectively navigate themes of migration, cultural identity, and the complexities of human relationships. What I found particularly rewarding was the collaborative nature of our work. As we exchanged ideas and perspectives, we co-created a body of artwork that reflected our collective journey and the shared experiences that defined us. This process of collaboration was not only creatively fulfilling but also emotionally profound, as it underscored the importance of community and solidarity in the face of our individual challenges.
Our exhibition, titled Underlands, was held during Berlin Arts Week, providing a vibrant platform for our work to reach a wider audience. The title itself encapsulated the themes we explored - those hidden depths of human experience that often remain unseen but are integral to our understanding of belonging and identity. The exhibition was a powerful reminder of the strength found in collaboration and the impact of sharing our stories through art. It emphasized that, regardless of our diverse backgrounds, we are united by our shared human experiences, which can serve as a source of connection and understanding. Participating in Underlands was not only a significant milestone in my artistic journey but also a heartfelt affirmation of the role art plays in bridging gaps and fostering dialogue within our communities.”
