Brady Walker: What is visual escapism?
Greta Brat: Visual escapism in digital art is like being whisked away to a dreamlike world, where reality becomes a distant memory, and the imagination takes over. I believe that visual escapism is a way for people to step away from their busy lives and enter into a world of imagination. It’s an invitation to escape reality and enter into a realm where anything is possible. Whether through the use of color, form, or composition, I strive to create works that transport viewers to another place where they can forget their worries and simply enjoy the beauty of the art. Through my art, I aim to provide a moment of respite and a chance to experience something new and magical.
Through my work, I am able to express and explore my innermost desires, aspirations, and values. I see my creations as a visual representation of the qualities and traits that I admire and hope to embody, and I use my art as a means of exploring what it would be like to live in a world where these ideals are prominent. My art is not just a visual expression of my personal thoughts and feelings but also a reflection of the type of person I hope to be and the world I hope to see. In this way, my creations serve as a projection of the hopes, dreams, and aspirations that I have for myself and others.
BW: You work with a very distinct color palette. Can you tell me about how you communicate with color through your work?
GB: I have found that through my art and my use of color and shapes, I am able to express ideas and emotions that I could not put into words. There are certain feelings, experiences, and thoughts that are difficult to articulate through language, but through my use of color and form, I am able to give them a visual form and bring them to life.
The soft, ethereal quality of pastel colors captures the essence of a dreamlike state, while otherworldly experiences allow me to delve into the unknown and the mysterious. By combining these elements in my art, I am able to create works that transport the viewer to a world that is both familiar and strange, a place where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred.
Through my exploration of dreams, pastel colors, and otherworldly experiences, I am able to tap into my imagination and push the limits of what is possible, creating works that are both beautiful and thought-provoking. In this way, my art becomes a reflection of my desire to capture the beauty and wonder of the world around me and to share it with others.
BW: Do you see the human figures in your pieces as distinct characters, or are they more like avatars that viewers are intended to engage with on a more basic aesthetic level?
GB: I may view the human figures in my art as more abstract or symbolic entities, serving as avatars that represent a particular concept, emotion, or idea. In these cases, I may see the figures as less important as individual characters and more important as symbols of a larger idea. In this sense, the human figures in my works of art may be intended to be engaged with on a more basic aesthetic level, serving as visual elements that help to convey the overall message or feeling of the piece.
My aim may be to use these figures as tools to express my thoughts, emotions, or ideas in a way that is both powerful and impactful. By creating figures that are more abstract or symbolic in nature, I may be able to connect with the viewer on a deeper, more intuitive level, inviting them to engage with the work and explore the ideas that I am trying to convey.
BW: One of my favorite pieces of yours is “Wings of Desire.” Can you tell me how this piece came about?
GB: I am often inspired by films and other forms of art. The 1987 Wim Wenders masterpiece “Wings of Desire” had a profound impact on me and inspired me to create my own interpretation of the story of an angel who desires to become human.
The piece was created intuitively, with a focus on capturing the essence of the film and translating it into a digital medium. I created “Wings of Desire” in 2020, during a time when I was in a very intense process of learning and growing as an artist. I allowed my imagination to guide me, and the final result is a beautiful testament to the power of love and the human spirit.
BW: How does frustration manifest in your creative practice? And what strategies do you use to get past it?
GB: As an artist, I often find myself navigating the waves of inspiration and frustration in my creative journey. At times, frustration can feel like a fog that obscures my vision and blocks the flow of my imagination. It can be a disheartening feeling, causing me to feel stuck or disconnected from my art.
For me, being in nature is a source of endless inspiration, reminding me of the beauty and magic of the world around me. Whether I am working in my home, taking a walk, or simply observing the world, I try to keep this connection with nature close to my heart, allowing it to inform and shape my work in beautiful and unexpected ways. To me, being in nature and traveling to new and inspiring places is an essential part of my creative practice.
BW: Can you talk about any specific influences or inspirations from the traditional art world that have shaped your creative vision?
GB: One specific influence that has shaped my creative vision is the surrealist movement. I am enamored by the dreamlike qualities of the art produced by the surrealists, who used the subconscious mind to explore the mysteries of the human psyche. Their fantastical imagery, often populated by strange and intriguing creatures, speaks to my own sense of wonder and inspires me to push the boundaries of reality in my own work.
One thing I’ve found particularly inspiring is using scanned 3D ancient sculptures to create digital art. I am fascinated by the history and beauty of these sculptures, and I see them as a way to bridge the gap between the past and the present. By incorporating these ancient forms into my digital art, I am able to breathe new life into these timeless pieces of art.
BW: Same as above, but now I’m curious about your digital art influences.
GB: As a digital artist, I am constantly inspired by the endless possibilities of the digital world. From the earliest days of computer graphics to the latest advancements in virtual and augmented reality, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to push the boundaries of what is possible with digital art.
I am also inspired by the work of other digital artists, particularly those who are experimenting with cutting-edge technology and pushing the limits of what can be achieved with digital tools. Whether it’s through the use of AI, machine learning, or other advanced techniques, I am always eager to see what other artists are doing and to learn from their work.
BW: How do you manage your time and prioritize your tasks as an artist?
GB: For me, managing my time as an artist is all about balancing structure and flexibility, finding the perfect harmony between work and play, and allowing myself to fully embrace the beauty and magic of the world around me. Once I have a clear understanding of what I want to achieve, I create a loose roadmap of my goals, taking into consideration both the deadlines I need to meet and the space I need for creative exploration. I prioritize my tasks based on what is most pressing, but always leave room for flexibility and flow. I find that time management and task prioritization are just as much about the journey as they are about the destination.
BW: How often do you finish new work? How much of it do you mint, and how much do you discard or keep to yourself?
GB: The frequency of my new work varies, as some pieces take longer to bring to life than others. When a new creation is complete, I carefully consider whether to mint it or keep it to myself.
I often have unfinished pieces that are waiting for their moment. I hold onto these pieces, knowing that they may one day be fully realized and brought to life. I never discard my creations, no matter how unfinished they may seem. I believe that every piece holds potential and that some just need more time to fully come to life.
I often have several pieces that are in various stages of completion, waiting for their moment to shine. These unfinished pieces are a reminder of my creative journey and the growth I have experienced as an artist. To me, they are a testament to the creative process and a symbol of the progress I have made. I keep these pieces close, treasuring them as an important part of my personal artistic story.
BW: What advice would you give your 20-year-old self about art and creativity?
GB: I would advise my 20-year-old self to give myself permission to create, to trust in my own unique vision, and not to be afraid of taking risks and exploring new territories. At that age, I was lost and unsure of my path, but looking back, I realize that those experiences shaped me into the artist I am today. Life can be tough, but my art helps me to heal and find my way.
Art has been my constant companion, helping me to heal from past hurts and embrace the present moment. It brings me peace, solace, and a sense of understanding about myself and the world around me. I wish I had started creating earlier in life, but even now, I am grateful for the opportunity to express myself and find healing through my art. Whether I’m creating a vivid landscape or sculpting a surreal 3D object, I am constantly in awe of the magic that can be created through artistic expression.