Public Republic

Vanya Nikolaeva’s interview with the painter Martin Key (Yavan)

Originally I am from Hungary. I’ve lived in some really great spots all around the world; most recently in Dublin, Ireland. My art is what directs me from place to place, as well as from stroke to stroke, and not the other way around.

What inspires me the most is the beauty of real life. My style is said to be abstract.

Painting gives you…

Liberty, creation, and satisfaction.

The colours as anyone can see in my work are uniquely expressive.

The best aspect of being an artist is…

You have the chance to express, to get rid of, to use your brain,t o call to your past, to give , and, if you have luck, maybe there is a chance to encourage thinking… and a lot more.

One can also find references to mythology, history, and the biblical stories amongst my themes. Other viewers will see something different. What I try to emphasize is the greatness of love, belief, loyalty and to be faithful to yourself and all your values.

I believe … that anyone who shares the same beliefs will enjoy my paintings.

I’ve had shows in Budapest, Cape Town, Fort Lauderdale, and Dublin.

Is life an abstraction?

Life is real. The way we live it is an abstraction.

Your dream is…

To get back to Petit Paris in Cape Town ( if it still exists?) and there are more…