Alex Kiessling: Creativity, Change, and Curiosity
After a few days of back-and-forth, I finally sat down with Austrian artist Alex Kiessling. Known for his vibrant and dynamic approach to figurative painting, Alex has always intrigued me. Recently, I've been looking at figurative art with fresh eyes and developing a new appreciation for it. Eager to learn more about the thoughts and processes of figurative artists, especially those creating portraits, I reached out to Alex for his insights.
To my surprise—and excitement, Alex shared that his career is undergoing a significant transition. He is moving away from his detailed figurative work towards a new style characterized by a limited palette and refined lines. This shift marks a major departure from his previous work.
Alex’s journey in art began with a strong foundation in classical drawing and painting. His earlier works are known for their intricate details and keen sense of composition. These pieces explore themes of perception, identity, and multiple of realities.
Philosophical and existential themes are central to Alex’s work. The concept of identity is particularly prominent. In his series “Shift,” Alex delves deeply into the exploration of identity and the multifaceted nature of human experiences. In these paintings, the overlapping of multiple layers suggests the multiplicity of potential realities. The visual distortion and repetition of facial features evoke a sense of movement, highlighting the dynamic nature of the self.
Alex's transformation as an artist was spurred by a series of personal and professional changes, including a move from Vienna to its outskirts and getting a house in South Africa. These experiences have provided fresh inspiration and significantly influenced his artistic process.
A key point in our discussion was Alex’s engagement with artificial intelligence in art. He has always been keen to incorporate new technology into his work. While AI offers valuable tools for reference and inspiration, Alex expressed concerns about its potential to diminish an artist's imaginative power. He doesn't fear AI taking over and putting artists out of work, but he worries about it interfering with an artist’s creative journey. His struggle with AI’s role in the creative process led him to a pivotal realization: the need to simplify and focus more on the elemental aspects of his work.
Describing his new process, Alex shared that his response to a blank canvas has evolved. Previously, a blank canvas was a call to continue past techniques; now, it poses a question of his current state, reflecting his life's experiences and his responses to them. This introspective approach has led him to exclude figures from his latest works. This shift highlights his desire to explore more abstract elements.
As he navigates what he describes as a "perfect midlife crisis," Alex remains curious and excited about the future of his art. He feels a profound need for his work to not only challenge him but also to resonate with his audience. This curiosity and willingness to embrace change promise to keep his work fresh and engaging.
Alex Kiessling’s evolving work continues to intrigue me. His journey from detailed figurative painting to more abstract compositions reflects a deepening of his artistic exploration and a willingness to embrace change.