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Why do you prefer to leave viewers to form their
own conclusions rather than explain your work?
I try to celebrate or elevate a particular ‘moment’
in time rather than describe a narrative. I know
what it means to me; it might not mean the same
to someone else. I like the idea that someone would
come across one of my works and it would mean
something to them without explanation
What inspires your work?
Everything I do. My art and my life are very closely
interlinked. Everything I engage in can be used to
affect or influence another area of what I’m doing
How long does it take to create each piece?
It depends entirely on the piece. Some of my works
are quite spontaneous and completed in a fewhours,
others take me weeks – even months – to complete.
What does it mean to be an artist?
There is no one answer; every artist will have their
own style. It’s definitely an ‘alternative’ career
choice. I’m still looking for the answer myself.
What is the most challenging aspect of your life and
work?
Staying disciplined. When you are regulating your
own work, it’s always difficult to keep yourself
motivated and to be a continually generating good
ideas
You attracted worldwide interest after your Penang
murals – did you enjoy the interest and giving
interviews?
I think it was more surprising than anything else.
You never create something with the expectation
of receiving a response like that. The media and
public attention was rather overwhelming, but it
gave me a great learning experience in my career
and it is always humbling to see how the murals are
embraced by the local community and also by the
people that travel to Penang to see them.
What do you like about Penang?
I first came to Penang about five years ago whilst
travelling. It was just one of those incredible places
you don’t really want to leave. There is a great sense
of community, really wonderful people and fantastic
food. Although I spend much of my time travelling
for projects, I maintain a studio [in Penang] and I
am always really pleased when I’m able to find time
to return to produce new work.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on a new project which
hopefully will launch at the end of the year. It is
definitely one of my most ambitious projects to
date. It’s all pretty quiet at the moment while we
are making plans but you can follow updates on
my website.
What advice would you give to a young person interested in being an artist?
Work hard, enjoy the process and don’t chase the rewards.
What burning ambitions do you still have?
To be an astronaut.
Ernest Zacharevic’s studio is located in the E&O Hotel, Penang. Read
more about the artists and keep up to date with his work by visiting
www.
ErnestZacharevic.com.
Poland wall
Ipoh mural
Boy chair