Jenny Saville, a renowned artist, has captivated audiences with her unique approach to art, particularly her exploration of the human body as a canvas. In an interview, Saville delves into her artistic journey, offering a fascinating insight into her creative process and the themes that drive her work.
The Body as a Landscape
Saville's work is characterized by her treatment of the human body as a landscape, a concept that has garnered both acclaim and controversy. She explains, "I see it as the relationship with nature. It's not about objectification but rather a way to communicate the unspoken essence of humanity." This perspective is evident in her early work, such as the self-portrait 'Propped', which sold for over $12 million at auction, and the triptych 'Strategy (South Face/Front Face/North Face)', a bold rendering of a woman's body.
A Curious and Clinical Gaze
Saville's fascination with the body is not limited to its physical appearance. She draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Freud, Bacon, and Picasso, and explores the body's intricacies through a curious and clinical lens. Her painting 'Planned' depicts a torso marked up for liposuction, showcasing her interest in the body's transformation and reconstruction. Saville's approach challenges the traditional notion of the body as a passive subject, instead presenting it as a dynamic and complex entity.
The Language of Women
Saville's work often focuses on women, and she attributes this to a natural language that emerged during her artistic development. She states, "I just did. And that became a language. I did a lot of self-portraits." Her paintings, such as 'The Mothers', capture the universal experience of motherhood, emphasizing the sense of growth, abundance, and poignancy. Saville's exploration of femininity and motherhood adds a layer of depth and emotion to her work.
Success and Gratification
Despite her immense success, Saville remains grounded in her studio, where she finds her purest creative space. She emphasizes, "I leave all of that at the door. When I come in here, I just don't think like that." Saville's success is evident in the millions her paintings can fetch, but she remains focused on her art rather than the financial implications. Her perspective on the value of art is nuanced, acknowledging the historical connection between financial support and artistic excellence.
A Lucky Artist
Saville's journey is a testament to the fulfillment of pursuing one's passion. She expresses, "I've lived my life doing the activity that I loved when I was a kid. It's really who I am." Her success and recognition in the art world are a result of her dedication and talent, and she embraces the luck that has come her way. Saville's attitude towards her art and success is a refreshing reminder of the joy and purpose that art can bring to an artist's life.
