Title: Latvian Sculptor Pauls Jaunzems Prepares Two New Works for Late 2024 and Beyond
Pauls Jaunzems, the renowned Latvian sculptor, is currently working on two new art pieces, one of which is expected to be revealed later this year. In an exclusive interview with Rīgas Apriņķa Avīze, Jaunzems shared insights into his creative process and the themes that inspire his work.
A New Work: "Nakts putns"
The upcoming sculpture, titled "Nakts putns" (Night Bird), will reflect Jaunzems’ current emotional and philosophical state, much like all his previous works. Known for his direct carving technique, he believes in maintaining the naturalprocess of creating art, similar to how a story unfolds in a live conversation. He avoids revealing too much about a work-in-progress, as he fears losing the spontaneity and emotional intensity of the creative process.
Engaging with Visitors and Critics
Jaunzems’ sculpture park has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Latvia and even from distant lands like Venezuela, Chile, and Brazil. He welcomes this interaction, as it often leads to thought-provoking discussions about art and its meaning. Jaunzems values these exchanges, even when faced with criticism, as they allow for a diverse range of perspectives and interpretations.
Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life
Jaunzems finds inspiration in the everyday happenings of life, which often find their way into his sculptures. One such theme is his connection to Ukraine, which he explored in a previous sculpture titled "Iemauktus". The emotional weight of this piece was immense, given his personal ties to the region – his father was Ukrainian.
His works often convey a deep reverence for nature and the environment, with many sculptures featuring rough, water-blistered surfaces that seem to mirror the reflective quality of water. Jaunzems believes in the importance of intuition and emotional response in art, rather than relying solely on technical measurements.
The Art of Storytelling Through Stone
For Jaunzems, the process of sculpting is akin to a two-way conversation with the stone. He spends considerable time searching for the perfect stone for each sculpture, ideally one that he can connect with on a deeper level. He believes that this symbiotic relationship is essential for creating art that resonates with both the artist and the viewer.
The challenges that come with working with stone, such as difficulties in transportation and the physical strain of carving, simply add to the allure of the process for Jaunzems. He enjoys the unforgiving nature of the medium, as it forces him to be fully present and engaged in the creative process.
Pauls Jaunzems’ upcoming works, along with his existing collection, promise to captivate viewers with their emotional depth, technical skill, and profound connection to the natural world. Art lovers and curious minds alike can look forward to expericing his creative genius later this year and beyond.
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