How Artist Miljan Suknovic Defines Being An Artist
Architecture, color, and the evocative beauty of nature are just some of what inspires New York based abstract artist Miljan Suknovic to create his colorful paintings and installations. An up-and-comer in the contemporary art scene, Miljan’s colorful syncopation and geometric designs read like a kaleidoscopic explosion of emotion on canvas. You can see it for yourself here.
Looking towards our DD8 High on Art event featuring Miljan’s recent paintings, we were excited to speak with him about how he approaches working with color, what makes an artist an artist, and the benefits of hemp.
How do you define an artist?
An artist is an individual that prioritizes one’s ability and need to create over roles that society assigns. Sometimes it's hard to believe that a color I place on canvas today could impact or have any importance in anyone's life, but it does. As a matter of fact, it is the most significant thing I can ever hope to accomplish.
You’re well-traveled and have lived in some incredible places! Which cities/countries have inspired your art the most?
I spent 7 years in Florence, one of the most beautiful and perfectly designed cities. While I was there, I didn’t realize the impact that city would have on my life and my creative abilities. Once I left Florence, I understood how vast my knowledge became through learning and absorbing everything the city had to offer--notably the visual harmony that resulted from renown artists and architects during the Renaissance.
Who or what are some of your biggest creative influences?
Creativity combines the forces of several fields. In my case, the most significant part comes from visual arts. I would say great artists such as Van Gogh or Gerhard Richter played huge roles. Although, several powerful individuals unrelated to art were influential too. For instance, I have to credit my grandmother (an incredibly wise and loving person), family and friends, nature itself, as well as many others for being present when creativity in me was born.
What does working with such a vast color palette mean to you?
Color is something I feel naturally. I'm not sure if it’s something I've learned or if it’s something that has always been within me, but I don't think about it; I just feel it. After many years of painting, I know I want the final message to be positive, whatever that means. I believe that if I infuse composition, light, and values within every color I use, it will result in harmony and beauty.
What are your thoughts on hemp as plant medicine?
There are evident benefits of natural remedies compared to traditional medicine. I support any idea in general while it is representing its purpose and used in a proper manner.
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Interview by Jillian Scheinfeld
