Taiwan
What inspired your winning entry? The blooming flower is always an amazing [vision in] nature that makes me feel joyful. The white flower looks simple and ordinary. However, by expressing multilevel value of the simple white color with subtle differences, I have found refined beauty.
How would you describe your style? Using a limited palette to simplify the presentation of the subject in a “less is more,” zen atmosphere.
What artists have influenced your work? The Italian painter Giorgio Morandi, who specialized in still lifes. His paintings inspired me to depict simple subjects with tonal subtlety to release the beauty.
When you’re not painting, what do you enjoy doing? In addition to painting, my favorite activity is to enjoy music. Different music styles bring me different feelings of colors, light, and shadows together with good memories.
How did you first get interested in art? A long time ago, in my childhood, I loved to observe the colors of nature. I was deeply attracted to the beautiful colors and shapes of all trees and flowers. In order to catch them, I began to draw what I saw in the countryside with colored pens.
Did you pursue other careers before you became a full-time artist? I worked as an art director at an animation company.
What inspires you to paint a scene? The inspiration for my paintings may come from a glimpse of an unexpected angle, light and shadow, or even a graceful flower. All the little beautiful subjects can inspire me to paint.
Where can collectors find your work? www.facebook.com/kuyaren.
This story was featured in the December 2018 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art December 2018 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.
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The post Artistic Excellence 2018 | Honorable Mention: Ya-Jen Ku appeared first on Southwest Art Magazine.