MARCO BATTAGLINI EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Known for his unique style, Marco Battaglini skillfully merges the grandeur of classical art with the edgy vibrancy of modern graffiti. His intriguing artwork has captured attention worldwide, challenging perceptions and inviting viewers to contemplate beyond their familiar realities. Today, we have the privilege of gaining deeper insights into Battaglini's artistic journey, his creative process, and the powerful experiences that have shaped his art. As we delve into this engaging conversation, prepare to be immersed in the world of an artist who transcends boundaries and redefines the conventional understanding of art.
“My objective is to challenge the observer to engage in introspection, to question, perhaps even contemplate matters that we usually overlook. My hope is to evoke non-routine thoughts, which at a particular moment, might stimulate an emotional response or a feeling that inspires the individual to create something beautiful in their own lives. ”
Your art showcases an amalgamation of classical beauty and anti-aesthetic. How do you decide which elements to combine in your artwork? What is your creative process?
Occasionally, I find myself pondering the notion that we're not creators, rather, we function as receptors, harnessing content from a benevolent origin. My process often commences with a thought, a resonating sentence depending on the internal emotional state I am navigating at the time. This idea subsequently transforms into the central theme shaping the entirety of my work.
Next, I pursue traditional themes or compositions that, in my perspective, harmonize with the concept I aim to articulate. I then devise backgrounds infused with graffiti, symbols, and messages that hold significance within that context for me.
The element of sensuality also plays a critical role in my work; Eros, the life force, is an indispensable component in my compositions. Additionally, humor and amusement, the desire to incite laughter through certain aspects of my creations, is an integral part of the process.
Ultimately, my objective is to challenge the observer to engage in introspection, to question, perhaps even contemplate matters that we usually overlook. My hope is to evoke non-routine thoughts, which at a particular moment, might stimulate an emotional response or a feeling that inspires the individual to create something beautiful in their own lives. Ideally, this should even bring about a smile.
You mention that your aim is to "remove barriers that distort the perception of reality." Can you elaborate on what these barriers are in your opinion, and how does your artwork help to remove or overcome them?
We are encased within numerous barriers, be they self-imposed restrictions stemming from our beliefs, cultural constraints, or barriers pertaining to time and space. We are so deeply submerged in our distinct realities that we struggle to view them objectively, rarely able to momentarily detach from our temporal and geographical contexts.
In particular, we, as Westerners, are so absorbed in the material realm that we have seemingly lost sight of our true selves. To echo the words of Giordano Bruno:
"Whether we embrace it or deny it, we are the architects of our own existence. Upon our birth into this world, we are lured into the illusion of the senses; we put faith in what is presented before us. Oblivious to our own deafness and blindness, we then fall prey to fear, forgetting our divine nature, our capacity to alter the course of events. It is not matter that gives rise to thought, but rather, thought that brings matter into being."
As you experiment with different temporal, spatial and cultural realities in your art, what challenges do you face in creating these multidimensional compositions? How do you overcome them?
The task at hand is to transcend the viewer's familiar reality and surroundings, escorting them, if only momentarily, into a parallel dimension. Contrast serves as my chosen vehicle to facilitate this voyage.
Contrast is a pivotal component of my aesthetic language, acting as a gateway to stimulate thought and inspire creativity. It is through IMAGINATION - the profound catalyst that empowers us to tap into other dimensions and construct our own reality - that we can truly experience this journey.
The term 'chronotope' is central to your work, indicating a fusion of time and space. How did you first become interested in exploring this concept, and how do you feel this exploration has evolved your art over time?
A decade ago, I was involved in a severe motorcycle incident - an "accident" only in conventional terms, as I don't subscribe to the concept of randomness. When I regained consciousness in the ICU, my initial words to the doctor were, "Doctor, the journey I just embarked on made the accident worthwhile!"
In my unconscious state, I truly experienced the relativity of space-time. I traversed my life, re-experiencing memories that I presumed had dissolved into nothingness, but were, in fact, more vibrant than ever.
I vividly observed how I've penned each chapter of my life through a series of micro-decisions, many of which were often made unconsciously. I came to understand that my present life is merely one segment of my entire existence.
I was privy to the echoes of eternity... and I was smitten. We are, in essence, an everlasting moment of pure imagination.
In your journey as an artist, have there been any pivotal moments or experiences that significantly shaped your approach or philosophy towards art?
Undoubtedly, the aforementioned accident served as a critical turning point in my life. I was 'gifted' with the experience of spending an entire month immobilized in bed, just thinking... feeling... something we rarely ever allow ourselves the luxury of doing.
We traverse life without ever really pausing to listen to our inner voice, often drowned out amidst a cacophony of stimuli. We seldom afford ourselves the time for compassionate self-dialogue.
But as fate would have it, I was given this valuable period to reflect, to listen to my own thoughts, and to confront the crucial questions within...
As I evaluated my life until that juncture, I pondered: Was I truly content? What did I desire for the road ahead? I recognized this as a grand opportunity for personal rebirth!
Should you be granted a fresh chance to rewrite your life story, what path would you choose?
Looking towards the future, are there any new themes or techniques you're interested in exploring in your art? How do you envision your work evolving?
My art, I genuinely believe, provides an expansive arena for exploration, imposing no constraints whatsoever. It merely serves as a gentle reminder of my roots, the genetic heritage within me, the great maestros who have indelibly influenced history, and through graffiti, it underscores the omnipresent duality inherent in all things. Beyond these reminders, my art grants me unfettered freedom to express any concept.
In terms of exploration, I'm already embarking on collaborations in the realms of fashion, architecture, and design. I continually remain open and receptive to new projects and inspiring partnerships that facilitate my growth as an artist and transcendental soul.
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