What kind of technics do you use?

I prefer digital photography and oil painting, I like to design posters too.


Have you collaborated with other artists on any projects before? What are the challenges of working with someone else?

I collaborated with the Pratt Institute's /NY/ prof Cheryl Gross. We did many illustrations together; it was a mix of her drawings with my photos /digital collages/. Our project goes by the name "Freak Show".  We were even awarded.
I think a few times with honourable mentions. A true challenge is to find a "good flow" with someone; fortunately, we had it since the beginning. We just collaborated via the Internet and have never met in real life. (an update: we finally saw each other in 2019 in New York at my solo show in Manhattan)


What is the most elaborate piece of art you've ever created? How long did it take you?

That would be my diploma. A series of serigraphs. It took me all year to finish. Serigraphy is complicated a bit. My artworks were large and needed lots of physical work. Also, I wrote the thesis, which was very important for me - titled "The Illusion of Reality"  inspired by deconstructivism and philosopher Derrida. It was in 2013. 

Do you perform any activities or rituals to keep yourself motivated and interested in creating more art?

Yes, I do. I try to live a healthy life. That is crucial for the brain to function right and think up good ideas. So that would be: eating smart, walking with the dog daily, and sleeping enough. Whatever helps in the situation: meditate, do yoga... I enjoy small things. But what motivates me most is travelling.


Does any artist influence your art? Who has inspired you during your career?

The philosophy of deconstruction influenced me just while I was ending my studies and doing my diploma.
But I never tried to copy anyone or create similarly; I learned from them only.
Painters and Graphic artists inspired me the most. From Poland, USA and England. But if I must name some, that would be Hockney, Hopper. They seem close to my heart even though I do something else. I admire their art. From Polish artists: it would be Wojciech Weiss's

words: "Don't let anybody tell you that you must do something else. Stay free in your mind and give yourself."

What is the best advice you can give to a growing artist?


Find the space and time to develop your skills. Work smart. Read books, travel, and meet other cultures - first of all - enjoy what you do. Seek challenges.


How do you define creativity? Do you consider yourself to be creative? Why or why not?

My definition of creativity is the same as in a dictionary: the ability to produce original ideas. You can decide whether I am creative by looking at my portfolio. 


What influence do you hope your work will have on other people?

Viewers are free to interpret my artwork. It's a pleasure to communicate with people through art, and it's a language of emotions. 


Do you use other paints other than oil-based ones? Or do you focus on oil paintings only?

Since I've tried oil painting, I fell in love with it. I tried acrylic once, but I am just unable to use them. I especially love oils because of their softness and possibilities for creating textures and transparency.


How much would it cost approximately if one would purchase an art piece from you, say an oil painting?

Depending on the size. If you are interested, please write to me directly at marta.wapiennik@gmail.com



When you run out of fresh ideas, what do you do?

When I am looking for some inspiration, I travel or read books. Both things are good. 
Training the brain is recommended. Learning new languages, talking to people, and making friends. All stimulate cognitive processes.

How would you describe your personal art style?


I would rather have no style. This would limit my imagination and freedom of creation. I don't want to be in a situation where people connect me with some specific artwork-making method. A style is suitable for fashion, furniture, and decoration, but for an artist is not, at least for me.


Why do you enhance your photos instead of keeping them natural?

It's essential to express my feelings and emotions through my art. That is why I do not only document 'reality'. I use my camera as a sketchbook. I take notes and then create an image instead of just taking it. At the beginning of my 'photography journey', I used to take reportage and documentary photos. When I learned how to modify them, I felt that is way more interesting and expanded the possibilities of 'communication' with the viewer. In my opinion, it's crucial to give something more from yourself while making an artwork. 

Among all your exhibits, which one are you most proud of?

 

The one that I will have in New York in January 2019My first solo show, and I am excited about it. I have never been to the USA (an update: read here)

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How can artists get featured in exhibits?

This is how I started: I applied for many open calls for artists that I found online. When I felt more confident, I searched for competitions.
For example, international photography calls that art galleries do. Just google it. I do it often. When you find a good source, subscribe to the newsletter.

When you create, how do you pick the medium for each piece? Or does it come and change in the process of work?

I take a picture to document what I see and have it digitally.  And I paint when I want to create a painting in my mind. I especially love oils because of their softness and possibilities for creating textures, transparency etc. To sum up, it's like entering two different worlds. 


When you take photos, what camera do you use?

At the beginning of my studies, I worked with Sony Cyber-Shot, really, later something bigger - Canon 600D with Sigma lens, but that was so heavy I decided to change it for Panasonic Lumix DMC - G3. I have 3 Panasonic lenses for it.
 

What computer programs do you use for graphic design?

I've been using Affinity, which works perfectly for me: design and photo. (I do more photography work). While designing posters, catalogues, logos, etc., I used Adobe during my studies.


How many years did you have to study Graphic Design at the Academy of Fine Arts in Cracow?

Just to make it clear, it was more about graphic arts (manual) than computer design. It was five years, 2008 - 2013. But I had to prepare for my studies, which took three years of drawing and painting courses.


Did you have to travel the world and be in your exhibits in person?


I wish I had! I didn't go to most of the exhibitions; I simply couldn't. It wasn't necessary to be there. But I must admit that, in general, it's worth going if you can. I always check the reviews and photo reportages from the exhibitions. I even ask to take a photo of my work. I need to see what it looks like, among other works, in a new space. Curators are happy to help with that.