Artist Interviews 2023 | parthenopi

/ / Artist Interviews 2023

We Asked parthenopi 11 Interesting Questions About Herself.

What was the inspiration behind your piece for SWELL Sculpture Festival 2023?

I was inspired by my materials- colourful plastic strips which are industrial offcuts. I loved how malleable they are and all the beautiful curves they create so I came up with a concept to suit these found materials rather than the other way around.

Is sustainability important for you and your work?

Sustainability is at the forefront of my work. I create my colourful sculptures out of discarded household and industrial plastics to stop people in their tracks and continue the conversation about how we can use less plastic in our everyday lives.

What goes in the bowl first… milk or cereal?

Cereal first with just a splash of milk at the very last moment… soggy cereal is the worst!

When is your favourite time of the day to create art?

I enjoy working into the night when the world goes quiet and there’s no distractions.

Cold or warm weather and why?

Warm weather means long days working outside… it’s much more productive. Cold weather is only good for rugging up with a mulled wine!

What does it mean to you to be a featured artist in SWELL Sculpture Festival?

Being a part of SWELL means I get to meet and interact with local and international artists and the wider community. It has been such a valuable way to meet some amazing people.

What is your easy-to-watch movie?

The Fifth Element… it’s often playing in the background as inspiration… it’s got it all… wild costumes, crazy colour and Bruce.

What was the biggest challenge you faced during the creation of your artwork?

If you are having a ‘cuppa’ is it tea or coffee?

Nothing happens without coffee first!

What is the best compliment for an artist to receive?

I love seeing kids enjoy my sculptures and then hear that I’ve inspired them to sift through the recycling bin at home and get creative.

If animals could talk, which one would you want to talk to?

Our blue Indian Ring-Necked Parrot, Iggy. He’s already a great talker but just a little repetitive. He’s often nibbling on my art materials so it would be good to get his opinion.