Magnus Gjoen glides across two worlds by recreating classic art with a modern twist.
Magnus Gjoen is a Norwegian artist exploring classic art with a modern twist. He describes himself as an accidental artist. This is due to how he rediscovered his artistry. One moment he was decorating the walls of his London flat, and the next, he was experiencing an epiphany that pulled him back into the world of art. Prior to this, he studied fashion in London and Milan, then later worked as a successful fashion designer for 15 years before quitting to embrace art fully.
As a contemporary artist, Gjoen has exhibited worldwide.
Classic Art With A Modern Twist: Bringing The Past To The Present
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Artistic essence
Gjoen uses existing artworks or fragments from the past to create his own. He creates a different perception on long-existing art by throwing in a modern twist. Basically, he manipulates and recreates masterpieces. Sometimes, he manipulates intimidating objects into fragile but aesthetic pieces. By harmonizing two genres from two separate worlds, he creates rediscovery, taking things from the past and merging them with the present. A sandwich of artistry.
Artistic influences
Gjoen is inspired by a wide range of influences, especially the beauty in old master paintings, landscapes, and still lifes. Also, he mentions his admiration for contemporary artist, Robert Indiana. Gjoen often spends time in the secluded areas of museums and old churches where he draws a considerable amount of inspiration.
{ Mixing Heaven with the Ghetto | Urban Pop Art by Marco Battaglini }
Ongoing projects
“Right now I’m working on a series called ‘Cover Me in Plastic and Make Me Shine’,” says Gjoen. “Here I was inspired by pieces from the Wallace Collection and the Rijks Museum to create a series based on the need to protect the arts from the lack of visitors to museums and theatres.”
Legacy and expectations
Creating art that glides between two worlds, Gjoen hopes his works trigger in his viewers the ability to view objects through different lenses. Due to the unusual nature of his art, he’d like his pieces to be remembered for their dark humor and blithe.
Style classification
Gjoen describes his style as a bridge between Andy Warhol and William Morris. He says, “It depends on the project. Although, all over the place lies a red thread which is recognizably mine, between contemporary and fine art.”
Personal statement
“I think as an artist it’s important not to compare yourself to others, but instead focus on creating your art. If someone copies you, it’s ok, you’re an artist, you can always create more art. If someone is doing better than you, it’s fine, focus on what you do best, that is, creating art.”
To see Gjoen’s latest artwork, visit Saatchi Art >
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