News & Events Q&A

Welcome to a "TRADITIONAL RITUAL PRESENTS"  Interview Transcript:

First published in November 2008, a “Traditional Ritual Presents” (produced & designed

by Derzorvadur) features Artists who utilize traditional mediums in their work. Each issue showcases the works of two Artists, and addresses topics such as: the techniques they

employ, what inspires them, and the creative process they follow.

Manon Gosselin’s Paintings & Collage work are featured in the April / May Issue 2009:

“Traditional Ritual Presents” © 2009, Derzorvadur & featured Artists, all rights reserved

What is your background as it relates to the Arts?

For as long as I can remember, I have been extremely passionate about the Arts. Drawing, Painting, and Story Telling were all very important and enjoyable parts of my childhood.

Later on, I debated whether to pursue Alternative Medicine, Psychology, or Fine Art. After

much consideration, I finale decided to make the Arts my career, and was fortunate to be selected as the recipient of the Hamille Textiles Scholarship Award  to attend Ryerson University’s "Fashion Design" program in Toronto, Canada. At the time, my ambition was

to become a Costume Designer  for the Theatre, or the Film Industry.

I then realized my true passion was for Illustration, Design, and Communications, and went on to earn my Bachelors Degree in "Communication & Design" at the Ontario College of

Art & Design (O.C.A.D.). 

Thereafter, I established my freelance agency “PhenoManon” in 1994, and have since worked on a wide variety of commercial illustrations, animations, multimedia, and design projects (some of which have earned a number of Awards). I have also participated in solo

& group gallery exhibitions, done private commissions, and have sold paintings, décore pieces, pottery, and sculptures on consignment.

How does the idea begin, and what inspires you?

Ideas are often nestled in the subconscious, waiting to burst forth when the right moment lends itself. Nature, music, literature, art, dance, theatre, movies etc… anything that evokes emotion, and speaks to the senses greatly inspires me.

In my personal work, I simply endeavor to attain a state of openness, and try letting go of

the need to control, in order for the process of creating to move freely. It is not unusual for

me to start a piece with a particular vision in mind, and have it become something quite different from what I had initially intended.

That is what I enjoy the most about the creative process. The eternal surprise of what might happen, as though the images and characters have a mind of their own, and I am simply a vehicle through which they choose to express themselves.

What technique do you use to achieve a better final product / piece?

Since I primarily work "Commercially", the project, and its final use, usually influences my choice of media. Though many of my pieces may appear to be part of a “series”, I do not

follow a “set formula”. They are often created in a variety of ways, since I enjoy using a multitude of techniques, and like to experiment as much as possible.

Exploring alternative solutions, and styles is one of my greatest passions. I used traditional mediums most of my formative years, and often begin working by hand ie: painting on canvas, and drawing in a sketchbook, or on boards. Depending on the piece, I might then bring it into the digital world, and push the idea further. I simply use what seems appropriate at the time, or I let the creative impulse decide.

What materials do you use and why?

Sketching with pencils is likely my favorite medium, as it allows for a great deal of spontaneity and freedom. I also enjoy using "Acrylics" as one can layer them endlessly, and achieve a variety of effects. I worked in "Oils" for a period of time, but find "Acrylics" much more forgiving, easier to deal with, and manipulate.

Lastly, I enjoy exploring digital techniques in Photoshop, Illustrator etc. I never cease to be amazed at what can be done on a computer and how quickly it can happen. The best part

is the ability to keep several different versions, and try a variety of things, not to mention the “undo” option is always handy … not so easy to achieve when working traditionally!

Do you ever have problems in the middle of the creation of your work, and if so, how do

you resolve it?

One could say that problems are part of the territory during the creative process, however

I often welcome them. Mistakes or accidents can offer a new perspective on a piece, and

may carry it towards a more satisfying result then was initially envisioned.

I also find that simply walking away for a discreet amount of time can offer a solution. Once you return with a fresh outlook, you might resolve the issue quite quickly. If the problem lies

in how the image looks, the most helpful trick is to flip the image or look at it in the mirror.

One can immediately decipher what doesn’t quite work, and subsequently fix it. It's the oldest trick in the book!

Are there any traditional artists you look up to?

There are so many artists I admire and look up to, it is difficult to select only a few. However,

I would say I am most inspired by the Old World Masters (Leonardo, Michelangelo, Rodin, Rembrandt etc…) as well as the great Philosophers, Inventors, and Literary Masterpieces our rich history houses. I never cease to marvel at their level of skill, ingenuity, dedication, and passion. What they achieved without the use of our modern day technologies astonishes me.

One that particularly stands out, given the period of time in which he created his works

(his date of birth is estimated at around 1450) is Jheronimus van Aken better known under the pseudonym of “Hieronymus Bosh”. The complexity of his pieces, symbolism, and the inventive realms he created easily make him one of the most intriguing and unique painters

of his time. His most famous piece, “The Garden of Earthly Delights” is one of my favorite works of art. Nothing is known of his personality or his thoughts on the meaning of his art, which only seems to add to his mystic.

The Surrealist movement, and artists that were brilliant visionaries in their work, have influenced me profoundly. Some of the most famous ones would include René Magritte, Salvador Dali, and M.C Escher, just to name a few.

Artwork that transports the viewer to another realm, or makes one pause to consider an alternative perspective / point of view, always earns my admiration and respect. There

is much more to our world then what we receive through our primary senses, and these

artists help to remind us of that.

What advice would you share with those who are new to the Arts, or with Artists that

want to try traditional techniques?

People are often hesitant to explore new avenues, but they can offer incredible and surprising possibilities. Trial and error can bring about very interesting and unexpected results. Working with materials one is not familiar with, might give rise to a new style, and offer an additional creative outlet.

There are certain effects that are far more satisfying, and easier to achieve using traditional means, rather then a computer. It is also interesting to combine traditional mediums with modern technologies. The possibilities are endless, and well worth exploring. Many teachers and artists have said “learn the rules well... then break them all’’ and I strongly encourage

every artist to do so. Plus, it 's great fun to paint, and get your hands dirty once in a while!

© 2009 Manon Gosselin and a “Traditional Ritual Presents III” © Derzorvadure and featured Artists, all rights reserved