Artist
It is less about “dreaming” or “imitating” than it is about fulfilling myself.”
How would you define art?
It is a portmanteau word in which you could include almost everything today. Etymologically, it comes from “ars” which means the mastering of techniques and which was used to qualify the work of “artists”. I do not have the master nor the techniques. So, my definition will be humbler and only apply to me. It is an almost unlimited playground to express “who” I am without any borders or safeguard.
What kind of artist do you wish to become?
The one I can be. It is less about “dreaming” or “imitating” than it is about fulfilling myself. I already am no longer the one I was when I started because my work, and hence myself, have evolved.
What are your influences?
They are multiple but they lie at the source of my daily life. It can be a place, a moment, a person, a feeling or a desire. Whatever it is, it will be the expression of my impression.
Let’s try to talk about the future. How does the “Judaica” project matter to you?
“Judaica” is more than a project, it is me. I may seem obscene to say it like that, but it is what I have received, what I do with what I have received, and what I want to pass on. It is my essence, my elementary particle.
Why choosing the theme of religion?
When we talk about the Jewish people, we talk about identity and nation as well as religion. Both are closely connected and interdependent. Concerning my roots, it is less a choice than it is obvious.
Would you connect religion and art? How?
The greatest achievements, whatever they are, wherever they are, would never have been made if is wasn’t for faith. If there is a connection, a prime phenomenon, I believe faith is what encouraged people to do their best, just like it may encourage them to be the worst. The Jewish people is distinct because of their recent “settlement”, so there are few monumental achie- vements. The book and the letter are a signi cant part of our identity. My work is inscribed in this tradition and its fragility, the canvas as re ections of the text we cherish.
Next exhibition at the Café des psaume, 4 January 2018
OPENING:
4 January 2018 from 6 to 9 pm. CAFÉ DES PSAUMES
16 ter, rue des Rosiers
75004 Paris
Phone: +33 (0)1 75 77 71 72
15 april to 22 avpil
2018, Tibériade
Israël
By Joëlle POLYDOR
