Six questions for
Michal Luft

Tique asks six questions to an artist about their work and inspiration.
This week: Michal Luft.

Artist Michal Luft
Lives in Antwerp, Belgium
Website https://michal-luft.com

How do you describe your own art practice?

My practice is based on the process of reevaluating the essence of everyday objects. I use photography for visual research and characterization of attributes and ambiance of various environments, to support the development of my site-specific works. The installations I create carry those ‘environmental findings’, where I have the freedom to meticulously reproduce and transform ordinary things into unsettling elements within the exhibition space.

Which question or theme is central in your work?

My works delve into aspects of social psychology, exploring common human behaviour we often attempt to conceal. Themes such as self-fulfilment and failure, obsessive or passive-aggressive behaviours, the need for a sense of control, and fears surrounding decay and loss are central to my exploration.

I’m curious about how thoughts, feelings, goals, and perceptions are shaped within a social context. I often feel there is a pervasive tendency towards presenting an illusion of perfection or “everything is under control”. With my research, I aim to unveil this facade.

What was your first experience with art?

In my early twenties, I came across photographs taken by both of my grandfathers. One grandfather left behind a collection of strange yet poetic photos from his agronomic research, focusing on orchids. The other grandfather’s collection had a conceptual edge, like contrasting postcards alongside his perspective of the same locations. it wasn’t my first experience with art, but I can definitely say it was profound.

What is your greatest source of inspiration?

I get inspired by what surrounds me – everyday objects, mundane public spaces… basically, things that are just there and often taken for granted.

What do you need in order to create your work?

Curiosity, patience, and sufficient time for observation, and experimentation. Because of the site-specific nature of my works, it also helps to have a space in mind where my work can be situated within a particular context, and of course – a deadline.

What work or artist has most recently surprised you?

The work ‘O Peixe’ (The Fish) by Jonathas de Andrade, and the photographs of Lynne Cohen.

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