Interview with Anne Siems
In 1991, having graduated from the University of Applied Arts in Berlin, Anne Siems moved to Seattle – where she still lives. For our series of intervies we invited her to a virtual cup of tea and talked about her work.
In the beginning she created her pictures – which were mostly inspired by medical and botanical books – on waxed found paper. 2001 she changed to working on big panels, where now her impressive and enchanted looking artworks are still painted on.
Flower garlands, fawns, colourful birds and girls with fragile dresses evolve a dreamy atmosphere, whose imagery often reminds of the novels written by Jane Austen or the Bronte Sisters
Where she takes her inspiration from, which artists she admires and how Anne Siems spends a perfect sunday, you can read after the click.
Why and when did you start making art?
I started painting with much enthusiasm when I was little and with everything that got into my hands. My father, an art teacher, provided a lot of material and took us to exhibitions.
What kind of art do you make?
I make art that I would like to have hanging on my own walls as well. That comes from my belly, not my head.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Inspiring are pictures of every kind, be they painted or photographed; but nature, fashions, movies, animals, dreams, stories from books and everything, that is life, inspires me as well.
What does your usual workday look like?
I try to be at my studio around 9 a.m, where I listen to my favourite show on the local NPR radio station for two hours. Then I take a walk with my dog or attend a fitness class. Then I go on working until 3 p.m, when I have to pick up my daughter from school. Sometimes, however, internet and housework is far too distracting…
How do you spend a perfect sunday?
Not being at the studio, taking a long walk or doing handicraft of all kind.
What is your favourite taste of chocolate?
Dark dark!
Show me your favourite artwork (from your own collection or another artist)
I dont’t have a favourite one, but i especially love art from the 16th to 19th century.
Whom should we interview next?
Julie Heffernan
If you could have coffee with a famous artist – dead or alive – whom would you choose?
Julie Heffernan
What is your philosophy of life?
Get to know yourself – Draw from the deep.
Thank you very much, Anne!