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“Freedom is a brushstroke! That’s what I’m feeling while creating. And this I want to share with my art.”
Beate Muench: The Art of Abstract Expressionism
Beate Muench is a talented artist from Mannheim, currently residing and working in Mainz, Germany. Muench initially pursued her passion for art as a self-taught artist, later enhancing her skills by participating in classes and workshops led by regional and international artists. Alongside her full-time office job, Muench attended evening art studies, gradually integrating her artistic practice into her daily life.
Although art was not actively pursued within her family, Muench later discovered her artistic heritage. Her mother was a musician, while both her grandfather and uncle were painters. For years, she remained unaware of her creative lineage. Feeling an unexplainable void that neither sports nor music could fill, Muench eventually began painting. From that moment, she found it impossible to resist the allure of her newfound passion.
Muench describes painting as a liberating and invigorating experience, providing her with a sense of belonging, freedom, and independence. The act of painting serves as a daily mood booster and energy revitalizer. Initially, she painted solely for herself, but she quickly began sharing her artwork with friends, family, and colleagues. Her creative journey led her to participate in group exhibitions, showcasing her talents to a wider audience.
The Medium and Message of Her Art
Beate Muench’s artistic oeuvre is characterized by abstract expressionism, which demonstrates a keen engagement with the viewer’s imagination. Muench’s preferred materials consist of acrylics and structure paste, which she skillfully applies using brushes and spatulas on diverse surfaces, such as canvas and paper. In order to establish direction within her compositions, she often incorporates oil pastel crayons, colored pencils, and charcoals.
The artist finds herself particularly drawn to working on mid-size or large-scale canvases, though she occasionally explores the medium of paper. Smaller canvases, measuring approximately 20×20 cm, present a unique challenge for Muench. She adjusts her technique and the tools she employs to accommodate the distinct requirements of these compact formats.
Intriguingly, Muench’s paintings invite a wide spectrum of interpretations, owing to their versatility and complexity. This encourages viewers to pause and engage in introspection, allowing them to connect with their own values and objectives. Ultimately, Muench’s art fosters a sense of lightness and openness, prompting individuals to consider alternative perspectives and embrace new possibilities.
Beate Muench: Creating with Intuition and Fluidity
In 2022, Beate Muench brought to life a masterpiece entitled “Sunny Lightness.” As Muench immersed herself in the painting process, she discovered an increasing sense of connection with her inner essence, experiencing tranquility and liberation. The artwork encompasses a myriad of intricate details, including both gentle and vigorous brushstrokes, vivid hues juxtaposed with delicate tints, and the interplay of shadows and darker elements. These individual components serve as a reflection of the diverse aspects of Muench’s own being. Furthermore, it was through this painting that she identified her artistic credo: “Freedom is a brushstroke!” This encapsulates the emotions Muench experiences during creation, and she strives to communicate this sentiment through her art.
Throughout her artistic journey, Muench relies on intuition to guide her. Time and space recede into the background as she delves into the present moment. Muench’s paintings emerge organically, with no premeditated plan. She initiates her creative process by making the first marks on the canvas and proceeds to build layers, resulting in a vibrant fusion of bold colors and an intermingling of forceful and tender brushstrokes. The artwork’s direction remains fluid and adaptable, with the potential for transformation at any given moment.
The canvas serves as a medium for Muench to express her full range of emotions. Negative feelings are transmuted into positive expressions through the act of painting. The duration required to complete a piece varies significantly, with some reaching completion within days, while others may take weeks or even months to reach fruition. Upon finishing a piece, Muench typically displays it on a wall, and it soon becomes evident if any adjustments are necessary. This intuitive and fluid approach exemplifies the true essence of Beate Muench’s artistic practice.
Beate Muench: Conversations Between Art and Space
Each of Beate Muench’s creations initiates a dialogue with the viewers and the spaces they inhabit. These artistic conversations not only foster positive energy but also instill a sense of freedom, strength, and courage.
In her ideal workspace, Muench surrounds herself with ample natural light from large windows, alternating between silence and music as the mood strikes her. She ensures that she has all the necessary materials and time to fully immerse herself in the creative process.
For aspiring artists, Muench advises trusting one’s instincts and pursuing one’s passions wholeheartedly. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal happiness and not being swayed by external opinions, as each individual is responsible for their own life. In addition to honing one’s craft through constant practice, she encourages emerging artists to engage with the world by showcasing their work and attending events.
Looking to the future, Muench has plans for her artistic journey and the evolution of her creations. While the specifics of her plans and projects are still being prepared, it is evident that her artistic endeavors will continue to flourish and captivate audiences.
