Glen Josselsohn

Acccording to artist Glen Josselsohn, art has been a part of civilisation forever. “Since the beginning of time, the need to communicate emerges from a set of universal questions,” he says.

“Who am I? Who needs to know? Why do they need to know? How will they find out? How do I want them to respond? Individuals, communities, and organisations express their individuality through their identity. On the continuum from the cave paintings at Lascaux to digital messages transmitted via satellite, humanity continues to create an infinite sensory palette of visual and verbal expression.”

Fascinated with man’s use of symbols to express fierce individuality, pride, loyalty, and ownership, Josselsohn believes that “as feudal domains became economic enterprises, what was once heraldry is now branding. The battle for physical territory has evolved into the competition for share of mind.”

We asked the artist to tell us more about his work and his inspiration.

What is you first memory with paint?

I remember using my fingers to smear watercolours over a big sheet of paper at nursery school, mixing colours and getting messy.

When did you decide to switch your brushes for syringes?

I have been using my drip technique for the past six years, but I do still use brushes, to paint in the colours in my abstract works.

Do you start with a clear idea in mind? Or do you work with the lines once they have been squirted?

I have an idea to begin with, but with my type of art, an idea evolves very quickly and can change dramatically in seconds. The lines definitely do create a guideline for where it is going to progress to.

Would you call yourself an abstract artist?

I am definitely an abstract artist. My work is very colourful, filled with energy, and is comprised of many shapes, patterns and colours.

The work of Jackson Pollock, who you say is an influence, often expressed his volatile personality and emotions. Does your work act as a means to express emotion?

For me painting is a form of meditation. I have to be in a good mood! My art is mostly comprised of bright, vibrant colours, expressing lots of energy. There is nothing quiet about my paintings, they are always full of life and express movement and joy.

Can you explain the importance of line and colour in your work? Is one more important than the other?

I feel that it is essential to have a balance of both. They are both pieces of a puzzle that need to work together harmoniously.

What inspires your work?

For me the biggest influences would be architectural masterpieces, nature, people in motion, and different cultures.

Which other local and international artists do you admire?

Miro, Kandinsky, Picasso, and Victor Pasmore are very big influences.

More information: www.glenjosselsohn.com

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