Michael Greve NSW
What was the inspiration behind the piece that is a part of the SWELL Sculpture Festival 2021?
A fallen tree that I drove past at 100 kilometres an hour. I saw the sculpture in the log in that first encounter.
Do you follow a process or plan for each new piece or do you ‘wing it’?
There is always a process but it must be flexible. The tree was a living thing, with a history and known unknowns.
Would you describe your artistic journey as a slow burn or a wild ride?
I have been on my journey as an artist for some 46 years. It is a slow journey with moments of turbulence which you just absorb into the mix.
Can you tell us a little bit more about how you became the artist that you are today?
I realised that I had a fascination with 3 dimensional form at the age of 16 and have been involved in a love affair ever since.
Describe your ideal environment where your creative juices flow?
In my instance 9 out of 10 environments would be natural as against man made.
Is there an artist or body of work that you would consider your muse?
I have what I would call eclectic mentors, mostly now passed away. A body of work including Praxiteles, ancient cave art, Michelangelo, Etruscan and Modigliani.
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your artistic style, what would they be?
Minimal intervention, feeling, over-thinking.
Beyond SWELL 2021, is there a forthcoming project you are most excited about?
I have another work in progress, engaging the current pandemic.
What does exhibiting in SWELL 2021 mean to you?
A wonderful opportunity for the work and public to interact.
Is there anything you do to continue developing as an artist? Would you describe yourself as self-taught or formally educated in your practice?
I want to keep removing all and anything that is unnecessary. I have had formal training and multiple gifted mentors, but very few from the area of fine art. This has given me an esoteric educational background which has not channeled me through the normal paths.
If you were to go on a holiday, would you venture to the ocean or the mountains?
I live on the ocean so I would go to the mountains.
Gourmet restaurant or home-cooked meal?
Gourmet restaurant, I love to eat other peoples food.
How would you describe your taste in music?
Stories.
The Author
Courtney Stephens is an emerging creative event producer based in Tweed Heads. After a successful career as a Practice Manager, her passion for the creative arts industry has led her to study a Bachelor of Business in Convention and Event Management. She hopes to balance her love for the arts, culture and nature with her strengths in communication and management to create community based events.