In which town did you grow up? I was born in Ekaterinburg (Ural) and called it home from 1979 to 1990. Then we moved to Heidelberg (1990-92), Ebersbach, Jagsthausen (1992-94), Öhringen (1994-97), and Berlin in 1997.
Do you think your background influences your current artistic style? If so, what specific element in your background is most pervasive in influencing your current artistic style?
Yes, it does. At the school for special talents in Russia, we were trained in academic drawing and painting. You can still find in my paintings certain elements that I learned there. And both of my parents are art historians.
What inspires you in the job of being an artist? I never considered it a job. (In doubt: money).
Which basic elements of creativity did your family teach you?
Never give up!
Does humor play a part in the way you create your paintings?
Yes, I am funny, “but not ha-ha funny. Peculiar I guess.” – Eels, 3 Speed
What is your favorite painting in your own collection? Always the latest.
Do you have a favorite artist yourself? Barney Gumble from “The Simpsons.”
Are you ever afraid you will run out of inspiration and creativity in your job? No – there are so many things I can copy and steal!
What is the most fun part of your job? Attention and the bank statements.
Do you expect your way of creating art to change in the future?
I am thinking about that daily.
Do you embrace the changes in the art industry regarding social media and technology influences?
No. I am not interested in that.
Do you like art? Do you have any preferences for an artist? And/or for creators of artistic work (can also be a chef, designer, photographer, fashion designer or inventor)?
Yes, I am an admirer of art. I think art is ha ha funny. My preferred artist is Barney Gumble from “The Simpsons”!
If so, why is that? What special quality do you like in their works or personalities?
I like that he [Barney Gumble] is not doing anything. He is not bothering the world with useless thoughts. He is the best performance artist ever.
Could we feature your favorite artist in our magazine and/or online?
Ask the creator of “The Simpsons”!
Do you aspire to collaborate in your creations with an artist from another artistic discipline? No – it [a former collaboration] was an awful experience!
Do you have a favorite company or exciting other creator with whom you would like to work?
Mercedes-Benz
What is your favorite building in the world? Bierpinsel in Berlin.
What is your favorite hotel? Hotel Mama.
What would be your best home? Always where Henriette is.
Is there anything else you would like to add to this interview?
Barbarus hic ergo sum, quia non intellegor ulli. (I am a barbarian here, because I am not understood by anyone.)