Nicolle Marais
SOTA Selective
My earliest memories are of my mother taking me to art lessons with an interesting artist in the suburb where I grew up. This gave me the freedom and skill to express my thoughts, feelings and passions through drawing, painting and creating. My passion for nature has always been the driving force behind my creativity. Although I have experimented with different mediums and themes over the years, my art remains full of energy, colour and a deep appreciation for the natural world around me.
"All art is but imitation of nature."
Lucius Annaeus Seneca
What is your favourite film of all time?!
Life is Beautiful, because of the music, the love and the language.
What music are you currently listening to and why?
Music from the Coffee Lands (Putumayo). I bought it while on Honeymoon in Brazil and when I listen to it, it takes me back there.
Which living artists do you most admire and why?
The Creator. I see the most mind-blowingly creative designs, textures and colours in the creation.
Which deceased artist do you most admire and why?
Paul Gauguin, because of his bold use of colour and symbolism in his work.
Which exhibition that you have visited made the greatest impact on you and why?
The Duchamp and Manray exhibition at The Tate Modern in 2008. It was inspiring to see these artist’s pieces, who’s work I have studied and enjoyed, in real life.
What is the question you get asked most frequently about your work and how do you answer it?
“What do you paint?” To me it’s such a silly question, because it changes all the time. I try to respond by saying: “I paint what excites me…”
What/ who inspired you to be an artist?
My faith. I believe that every person has a set of skills/talents and that you have a responsibility to develop them and use them to bless those around you.
Can you tell us about where you make your art and what if any, the significance of this location is.
My studio is at the back of our home in Vredehoek. I like painting from home, because it a ‘safe’ environment where I feel that I can be relaxed and free to experiment.
What do you like most about being an artist?
I love the fact that I can express my emotions and thoughts in a way that come natural to me.
What is your greatest achievement as an artist to date?
My greatest achievement is creating a painting for someone and observing their happiness and enjoyment.
What are your plans for the coming year?
I plan to grab hold of any opportunity that comes my way, to work hard and develop my skills.