Meet the Artist: Komal Madar
1) How long have you been making art?
Ever since I can remember. As a child I was a daydreamer…some would say I still am; and at school I remember my friends saying my ideas were unusual. My passion for art continued throughout my education. I’ve been fortunate to attend the best art schools that the UK has to offer. I have a foundation diploma from Central Saint Martins and a Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art from Byam Shaw School of Art.
I have been working professionally as an artist for over a year now, and undertaken commissioned art works for well renowned establishments in Cambodia and London. I have been selling work worldwide and producing artworks for gallery exhibitions. My work was recently published in Vogue, House & Garden, and The World of Interiors.
2) What genre best describes the kind of art you create?
My work is often abstract in style, energetic, vibrant, and bold. There is much variety in my work, I also feel like I don’t need to stick to one style because that wouldn’t reflect me as a person. My work currently falls into the themes of Nature, Erotica and Indian influence. I try to evoke emotions through my work and I’m in constant search for something new. My Indian background also influences my creations, particularly through my Film work.
3) You studied at Central St Martins in London, how was that experience for you?
At first it was a shock to me as it was so different from being at school. The environment was fast paced, competitive, and there was an overwhelming amount of work and expectations. However, it was also the most enjoyable and memorable educational experience I’ve had. It was the perfect environment to be inspired and learn from others. I eventually adjusted to the pace and found myself creating work I was really proud of. I met the most wonderful people and was taught by some inspirational tutors.
4) Your Giclée prints have proved to be very popular, are collectors also able to buy originals from you?
Yes, my originals are for sale. I always find it hard to let go of an original, but knowing it’s making someone else happy brings me great joy.
5) Is there a medium or technique that you haven’t yet tried but would like to?
I don’t think there is anything that I wouldn’t try. As part of my practice the investigation of mediums and techniques is vital. I hope to be working with other artist this year and learning to use mediums such as ceramics, glass and different printing techniques.
6) What would your ideal solo exhibition be like and where would it be held?
I think my ideal solo exhibition would be somewhere like the Royal Academy, where each room would represent the different themes I work with.
7) Do you have a favourite artist or painting?
An all-time favourite is Salvador Dali. I think his work really exercises the mind and offers much mystery. I love his painting Swans Reflecting Elephants because it’s so magical and clever. Other artists also include Chris Ofili, because of his use of colour and the range of media. I also love Anselm Kiefer’s work because it’s ambitious, large in scale and brave with the complex issues it confronts.
8) What are you planning to exhibit at the New Artist Fair in March 2015?
Firstly I’m very excited to be exhibiting at the New Artist Fair. I will be exhibiting framed limited edition prints. The prints are taken from photographs of my original paintings. I will also have a couple of original pieces such as Autumn in Gandhi Park which was featured in Vogue, and my latest painting To the Point of Blue which I’m slightly reluctant to part with. People will also have to opportunity to enquire about original pieces and talk to me throughout the exhibition about my work.
Ever since I can remember. As a child I was a daydreamer…some would say I still am; and at school I remember my friends saying my ideas were unusual. My passion for art continued throughout my education. I’ve been fortunate to attend the best art schools that the UK has to offer. I have a foundation diploma from Central Saint Martins and a Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art from Byam Shaw School of Art.
I have been working professionally as an artist for over a year now, and undertaken commissioned art works for well renowned establishments in Cambodia and London. I have been selling work worldwide and producing artworks for gallery exhibitions. My work was recently published in Vogue, House & Garden, and The World of Interiors.
2) What genre best describes the kind of art you create?
My work is often abstract in style, energetic, vibrant, and bold. There is much variety in my work, I also feel like I don’t need to stick to one style because that wouldn’t reflect me as a person. My work currently falls into the themes of Nature, Erotica and Indian influence. I try to evoke emotions through my work and I’m in constant search for something new. My Indian background also influences my creations, particularly through my Film work.
3) You studied at Central St Martins in London, how was that experience for you?
At first it was a shock to me as it was so different from being at school. The environment was fast paced, competitive, and there was an overwhelming amount of work and expectations. However, it was also the most enjoyable and memorable educational experience I’ve had. It was the perfect environment to be inspired and learn from others. I eventually adjusted to the pace and found myself creating work I was really proud of. I met the most wonderful people and was taught by some inspirational tutors.
4) Your Giclée prints have proved to be very popular, are collectors also able to buy originals from you?
Yes, my originals are for sale. I always find it hard to let go of an original, but knowing it’s making someone else happy brings me great joy.
5) Is there a medium or technique that you haven’t yet tried but would like to?
I don’t think there is anything that I wouldn’t try. As part of my practice the investigation of mediums and techniques is vital. I hope to be working with other artist this year and learning to use mediums such as ceramics, glass and different printing techniques.
6) What would your ideal solo exhibition be like and where would it be held?
I think my ideal solo exhibition would be somewhere like the Royal Academy, where each room would represent the different themes I work with.
7) Do you have a favourite artist or painting?
An all-time favourite is Salvador Dali. I think his work really exercises the mind and offers much mystery. I love his painting Swans Reflecting Elephants because it’s so magical and clever. Other artists also include Chris Ofili, because of his use of colour and the range of media. I also love Anselm Kiefer’s work because it’s ambitious, large in scale and brave with the complex issues it confronts.
8) What are you planning to exhibit at the New Artist Fair in March 2015?
Firstly I’m very excited to be exhibiting at the New Artist Fair. I will be exhibiting framed limited edition prints. The prints are taken from photographs of my original paintings. I will also have a couple of original pieces such as Autumn in Gandhi Park which was featured in Vogue, and my latest painting To the Point of Blue which I’m slightly reluctant to part with. People will also have to opportunity to enquire about original pieces and talk to me throughout the exhibition about my work.
