“I merge my photography with digital art, creating mixed media digital collages that take viewers on their own journeys, exploring themes of travel, exploration, and nostalgia.”
Shaping an Artist’s Identity: The Fusion of Diverse Roots and Passions
Marc Kuegle’s journey as an artist is a blend of influences from his Cree and German heritage and experiences collected along the way. Raised in Canada, Kuegle’s life reflects an intriguing mix of cultural narratives and interests that infuse his art. His creative process is deeply impacted by skateboarding, music, and the communities and landscapes he encounters while traveling. His multicultural background not only informs his perspective but also breathes life into his artistic style, which often explores themes of exploration, nostalgia, and discovery. Each piece he creates is a testament to the places and people he has engaged with, bridging cultures and memories in vibrant, evocative forms.
As he grew up, Kuegle found inspiration in the skateboarding culture, especially the visual allure of skate magazines. The raw and expressive graphics, advertisements, and articles in these publications struck a chord, ultimately shaping his approach to visual storytelling. Skateboarding became a gateway, not only into the art scene but also into diverse urban cultures. Kuegle often immerses himself in local skate and music scenes whenever he travels, recognizing them as intertwined art forms that thrive on expression and freedom. These encounters have encouraged him to explore his style, starting from stencils and photography, and later evolving with the digital possibilities of Photoshop—a medium that allowed him to merge these worlds.
A significant leap in his career came with his move to Bangkok in 2019, which opened an array of opportunities. Bangkok’s thriving art scene allowed him to connect with artists worldwide, creating lasting relationships that have impacted his work. His return to Thailand in 2023 for a solo exhibition titled Fisherman Friends marked a culmination of his artistic evolution. The exhibit, supported by a Canadian Council for the Arts grant, showcased his growth and connection to Thailand through thirteen pieces that revisited his experiences there. This collection exemplifies how his background and journey come together in his art, presenting a dynamic narrative that resonates with viewers worldwide.
Photo by @pabloriquelmephotography
Photo by @kristhine.guerrero
Marc Kuegle: The Art of Mixed Media and Collage
Kuegle’s distinct artistic style is defined by his ability to merge photography with digital manipulation, resulting in layered mixed media collages that invite viewers to experience a sense of journey and introspection. Each piece combines photographs he has captured on his travels with digital elements, creating what he describes as “false memories”—visual echoes of places and times that feel both familiar and surreal. His collages serve as pathways into imagined worlds, offering a momentary escape while exploring themes of nostalgia and wanderlust. The integration of photography and digital art allows him to blur the boundaries between reality and memory, making each piece a unique artifact of his travels.
Central to Kuegle’s process is his extensive collection of personal photographs, which he uses as a foundational resource. This vast archive enables him to experiment freely, juxtaposing images and crafting compositions that reflect the emotions and memories tied to specific places. His workspace is wherever he has his laptop and headphones, creating a portable studio environment where he can remain focused despite external distractions. Music plays a crucial role in setting the creative tone, acting as an auditory anchor while he navigates through layers of images and ideas.
His style, honed over fifteen years, remains fluid, marked by an openness to learn and evolve. Traditional Japanese block printing, another significant influence, subtly shapes his compositions, adding an aesthetic depth rooted in his fascination with Japanese culture. This artistic curiosity drives him to seek connections between different art forms and styles, making his work both personal and universally relatable. Each collage encapsulates fragments of time and place, inviting audiences to interpret them through their own perspectives, ultimately sparking a shared sense of adventure.
Collaboration and Inspiration: Kuegle’s Artistic Influences
Kuegle’s path has been influenced by a rich tapestry of creative figures and communities, each shaping his approach to art and his connection to the larger art world. One of his earliest influences, Shepard Fairey, known for his bold street art and graphic design, left a lasting impression on Kuegle, inspiring his use of powerful imagery and social commentary. Similarly, photographer Martha Cooper’s work—often celebrated for capturing urban street culture—resonated with him deeply. Cooper’s iconic style and ability to document fleeting moments within dynamic urban settings inspired Kuegle to approach his photography with a sense of spontaneity and respect for cultural expression.
Friendships formed within the art community have also enriched his work, introducing him to new ideas and perspectives. A particularly meaningful connection is with artist Mumbot, whose work ethic and dedication to building a supportive community through The Ghost Club have been instrumental for Kuegle. Through this collective, he found a space where artists uplift one another, share resources, and collaborate across diverse projects. This environment has become a significant source of inspiration and support, fueling Kuegle’s creative endeavors and providing a platform for exchange and growth.
The impact of these influences is evident in his work, where he brings together elements of street art, photography, and digital media, creating pieces that celebrate community, individuality, and connection. The camaraderie of these networks has not only shaped Kuegle’s style but also his perspective on art as a collaborative force—a way to connect with others and offer insights into shared experiences. His art, enriched by these connections, speaks to the transformative power of community and shared creativity, reflecting the essence of urban life and artistic solidarity.
Marc Kuegle: Projects on the Horizon and Aspirations for the Future
Kuegle’s artistic ambitions extend beyond his current projects, envisioning larger-scale installations and immersive works that push the boundaries of his practice. One project he dreams of expanding is his Taking Flight Installation, an animated piece inspired by early animation devices like the zoetrope. Originally installed on the world’s longest naturally frozen river trail, this project combines his love for birds with wheat pasting, photography, and graphic design. Kuegle envisions Taking Flight as a permanent, large-scale installation where viewers can experience the illusion of flight through simple animation techniques. This piece exemplifies his fascination with motion and transformation, creating a visually engaging experience rooted in the natural landscape.
Another aspiration for Kuegle is to undertake an art residency in Japan, a country whose art and culture have long captivated him. Although he has only briefly visited during layovers, Japan’s landscapes and traditions continue to influence his work, particularly the techniques and aesthetics of Japanese block printing. Spending an extended period immersed in Japanese culture would allow him to explore these influences on a deeper level, creating a body of work that reflects his evolving relationship with the country. This residency would offer him the chance to connect with local artists, observe traditional practices, and bring his own interpretations to the cultural landscapes that have inspired him.
Ultimately, Kuegle’s vision for his future projects reflects his commitment to growth, exploration, and community. Through installations, collaborations, and residencies, he aims to expand his artistic reach, transforming his ideas into experiences that engage and resonate with audiences. His journey, shaped by diverse cultural influences and an unrelenting passion for storytelling, continues to evolve, promising new horizons and connections in the global art landscape.
Photo by @digslaps
