We Asked Trent Paul Firmin Interesting Questions About Himself.
What was the inspiration behind your piece for SWELL Sculpture Festival 2023?
The inspo behind my sculpture was a Betty Quelhurst artwork, named Windbreaks, Surfers 61 and the beach culture of the Mid-Century on the Gold Coast
Where were you born, where are you living now, and how does where you live affect your art?
I was born on the Gold Coast and grew up in Sorrento and Ashmore, I have seen the huge changes in the Gold Coast from the boom days of Japanese tourism to the empty streets during Covid 2020/21. I am so lucky to call the Goldie my home town, I have daily inspiration from the Surf to the hinterland, I have lived in almost every suburb on the Gold Coast, which is reflected in almost all my works.
If you are having a ‘cuppa’ is it tea or coffee?
It’s Tea, I’m pretty sure…..but I am a triple shot kinda guy or you’ll see me with an energy drink, unless I am on holiday’s… then I might swap out a coffee for a Champas, almost every time. hahaha.
Where do you find inspiration?
All parts of my life and others around me, my environments, especially the landscape of the Gold Coast. I am a sucker for places like Austinville & Springbrook.
What is your favourite meal to cook when trying to impress someone?
I make a mean Japanese Curry and hamburgers with the lot is a specialty!
If you weren’t an artist, what would your profession be?
It would be in design, I studied both Fashion and interior design.
What is your easy-to-watch movie?
I have a couple of go to movies… Howls Moving Castle and Last Action Hero.
If you could have lunch with any artist from any era, who would it be?
Ok, I would have to admit I have 3 artists I would love to have lunch with…
Rupert Bunny, Keith Haring and DKB – Del Kathryn Barton.
What does it mean to you to be a featured artist in SWELL Sculpture Festival?
It means a great deal to me, for years I have come and been in awe of some amazing works and artists at SWELL, so after my initial idea, it has taken a couple of years to pull this together to be chosen to exhibit. I am really glad to get the chance to see my vision in situ for 10 days and have the Gold Coast and visitors respond, and to see how the work endures over the Swell Sculpture Festival 2023. Thanks to Natasha, Dee and team, you have been so supportive.
If you could choose any, what superpower would you want?
Chosen superpower would be time travel….how good would that be. Is it a superpower though….wouldn’t mind being Popeye tough. hahaha
What was your favourite moment of 2023 so far?
Selling my first 2 paintings, when I entered my third show this year!
What advice do you have for emerging artists?
Practice/work everyday! If you think it might be too difficult or that little voice says otherwise, don’t listen to it! Keep at it, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
