Artist Interview: Natalia Koren Kropf, New York: The unknown is what inspires me and keeps me going.
Natalia Koren Kropf is a classically trained, interdisciplinary, award-winning contemporary artist who combines art and science in various studio media. She explores current topics of change in climate and society and the eternal themes of light and movement.
Natalia creates art forms that radiate happy vibes, attractive visuals that elevate, and a sense of completeness. Natalia works as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker and experi- ments with different materials and new combinations of eco-friendly techniques. Natalia lives and works in New York City.
December 1, 2023
CONTACT NATALIA:
Website url: https://www.korenkropf.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliakorenkropf/
Hopes and Dreams. 2023. Neon and metallic acrylic on canvas, 24x30 inches ( 61 x 76.2 cm)
Where do you get your inspiration?
Observing Nature is my constant inspiration. For years and years, I observed and recorded what I saw around me by painting landscapes and portraits, drawing forms and textures, studying human anatomy, range of movement, and dance. Naturally, during the forming years, I started composing my own versions of the visual dynamic by simplifying motion trajectories into curvatures, obtaining a gradual understanding of the interconnected universe by learning about quantum physics and string theory, through my spiritual practice, poetry, and intuitive sense of oneness. So far my artistic journey has been fueled by curiosity about who I am in this great universal puzzle.
How do you deal with artist's block?
When I cannot paint, I write poetry.
When I cannot write poetry, I paint.
It is really a great formula for me not to get down too much for too long. I understand that artistic process comes in waves and it if important to let your self rest from most amazing projects ( especially the most intense and inspiring ones). To avoid a burnout, I switch my attention to another side of my brain until I need another break, then go back to painting or take very long nature walks.
Summer Vibes. 2021. Tempera on panel, neon and iridescent acrylic, pigmented sticks on birchwood panel. 36x24 inches ( 91.5 x 61 cm)
Where do you see your art going in ten years?
The unknown always inspires me, why define the future? Even if painted the same subject, using one single technique - my work would evolve, because everything is changing around me. I am also changing. Yet, I say the same - themesless themes, timeless nature. But I do not stay the same. Neither does nature.
Can you tell us what you have going on right now?
Currently I am working on a complex form - a bronze sculpture.
I am very grateful to the Artios Gallery for representing me and for giving me excellent exhibition opportunities, such as Shanghai International Art Fair. Earlier this year I participated in the New York Art Expo 2023, where I was introduced to A&E Fine Art Gallery, who invited me to join them at the Red Dot/Spectrum Miami Art Fair this December 2023. Meanwhile, I am working on a new body of work in collaboration with Art Plexus Group, an Artios Gallery new Project entitled The Elements. I am very excited – it's right down my alley – stay tuned!
Golden Glow. 2022. Tempera on birchwood panel, 12x24 inches, (30.5 x 61 cm)
What is your life quote/motto?
“I came to manifest harmony in life.”
I always believed that by observing harmony of nature, one can become its part. In my artworks and in my communication I go with the flow and welcome any opportunity. I try to find peace of mind in the most difficult situations and it proved to be a cure for stress and negativity. There is a silver lining to any situation. You can see it in my painting entitled The Silver Lining, which will be presented at the Red Dot/Spectrum in Miami.
Silver Lining. 2022. Metallic pigments on canvas, 36x24 inches, (91.5 x 61 cm)
How do you work?
I work intuitively.
It is really hard to put into words.
I suppose it is a kind of conscious living in constant vigilance for an inspirational spark.
Once that occurs, it is up to my organizational skills, patience and drive you to make it happen, to manifest my vision in response to the ignited idea.
Can you tell us what your 'Before I Die' is?
I want to live my life to the fullest! Which means not to loose a vivid beat of my artistry, deepen my perception and optimize my expression.
There are so many pathways to travel, virtually and literally. So many places to see and people to meet. I embrace all that comes my way. I am expanding my horizons as I grow old.
Ancient Whispers I. 2020. Monotype on rice paper, 12x12 inches, ( 30.5 x 30.5 cm)
What’s integral to the work of an artist?
Continuous learning and listening to the heart are the integral components of being an artist.
One Spiritual master once answered the question addressed to him: “What makes you a master?” With the words : “The moment one decides that he is a master, he stops being a master”.
The same thing in art. It is a process, and artworks are the by products of this process. And there is more to that, I am sure.
What could you not do without?
Sunshine and a sense of humor!
Those who take themselves too seriously, become guided by their thoughts and forget that a lot in life comes at unexpected moments. Those who can adapt to any change with a lightened up mind, with humor, experience joy of the mere surprise itself. We cannot control our environment, but we can learn to live there and even thrive.
That’s why the sunshine is so important!
SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR