Notagallery had the pleasure of meeting Sven Vollbrecht, a conceptual artist whose journey from the working-class districts of Berlin to the vibrant heart of the art world is not only captivating but inspiring. Sven, known for his introspective and thought-provoking pieces, delves into the complexities of human connection and societal reflections through his unique lens. In this intimate interview, he opens up about his unconventional path to artistry, driven by a deep-seated desire for creative freedom and self-expression.
Q : To begin with, could you please introduce yourself and share some details about your background and the journey that led you to the art world ?
I come from a working-class family in Berlin. During my childhood, my only exposure to art was through school trips to museums. Art was not a part of my surroundings. Given my limited financial means and opportunities, I had to improvise everything to pursue what I wanted.
I became a photographer and director for commercial videos, TV series, and magazines, primarily for small brands. While this made me creative, I felt unsatisfied because I wasn't a free creative artist operating at my full potential. Four years ago, with my father's illness, I began questioning if this was the life I truly wanted to lead. I kept telling myself, 'Hey, you don't know how much time you have left, how long you'll stay healthy. So, what do I really want to be?' The answer was clear—I wanted to be an artist. I desired freedom, the ability to do what I wanted rather than following someone else's directives for money. So, three years ago, I made the decision to become an artist. My friends had always told me, 'You are an artist', but I never had the courage to take that leap. No one knew me; I lacked formal education. But one constant in my life is that I've always been a self-learner, using my own hands. Just as I succeeded in becoming a photographer and director, I believed I could thrive through art.
Portrait of Sven Vollbrecht. Courtesy of the artist.
Q : In your body of work, how would you describe your artistic style, and what themes do you explore? How have these themes and styles evolved as you've grown as an artist?
My works center around human connections and mirror our consumerist society. They explore how we, as humans, navigate our interactions, with industries serving as integral aspects of our culture, akin to religion. I don't have a fixed idea of art. I align my art with myself, it is a process that evolves alongside the artist, not a set idea. I consider my art as Selfish - it reflects my status quo, what I'm experiencing in this moment of my life, and how I'm feeling.
I prefer not to explicitly share what’s behind my art, where they come from, and how they were created. This would impose a label on the observer, potentially limiting the connection between the art and the viewer, obstructing the viewer's imagination. This would undermine the primary and essential function of art in this world.
Circle, 2023, Installation Sven Vollbrecht. Courtesy of the artist.
Q : How do you approach the concept and execution of a new piece of art? Could you walk us through your creative process, from the initial idea to the finished artwork?
There is a difference between doing a work specifically for an exhibition theme and doing a free work where I set myself a deadline. What is similar in the approach is the type of research, the exploration of the theme. I go for a walk and think and immerse myself in the topic. I do a lot of research and the design, the material and the message change from day to day. With an exhibition, there comes a point when I have to make a slow decision so that the artwork is finished in time. With a freelance work, I may postpone the deadline. On the one hand, I like the competition, on the other hand, I like to lose myself in the flow.
Q : What fuels your motivation and creativity as an artist? Are there specific experiences, emotions, or sources of inspiration that consistently drive your creation process?
Clearly the realization of the finiteness and uniqueness of my life. I no longer need motivation, I no longer have any time pressure. I have been philosophizing about civilization and the associated problems and solutions since my youth. Now that I have decided to live only as an artist in our society, my thoughts turn into art projects, performances, sculptures and installations. This feeling is so liberating that everything is possible for me every day. I love observing us humans with our room for manoeuvre and the resulting outcomes, it's so inspiring that I can draw endless strength and ideas from it.
Q : Is there anything else you would like to share such as the most memorable moment in your life as an artist or a personal story from your journey as an artist?
My first group exhibition "Departure" was together with Jonathan Meese and Noah Becker. I realised then that I had made the right decisions for my life as an artist. Exhibiting with these artists gave me strength and a boost. Imagination not only creates works of art, but also shapes your path as an artist. For my part, I have to say that I'm slowly starting to realize my potential more and more, so I'm looking forward to everything that's to come...
Q : Finally, could you recommend an emerging artist whose work has recently caught your attention?
Ness Ruby is an Austrian artist. Her way of thinking, her craftsmanship, her view of things touches and inspires. I'm sure she will make a big difference!
