What does the ideal artist’s studio look like? How much time does an artist spend there? Is it a sacred place? This week in 'The Artist’s studio' series: Bendt Eyckermans (age 27).
Do you visit your studio every day?
I am there on weekdays from eight thirty in the morning until seven in the evening. That time frame seems very specific, but after graduating I soon realized that this structure was very important to get my work rhythm going and to create something to hold on to. My girlfriend Gaëlle often thinks that I deliberately forget things there as an excuse to stop by, haha.
What time do you leave for your studio, and how: on foot, by bicycle, public transport or car?
My preference is to go there walking, if I really can't wait, I cycle. I am out of the house between eight and eight thirty anyway. The act of transporting myself to the studio is very important. I know some artists who effectively live above, below or next to their studio and that would become really problematic for me mentally. The separation of a creative and living environment is really necessary, a personal must.
Do you hold on to certain rituals in your studio? Music or silence?
Music for me is an energizer and therefore too distracting, unless the choice of music fits atmospherically with the work or my mood. Preference is given to podcasts, audiobooks or silence. Sometimes people – friends, family – call me because they need a conversation, and I'm always available for that.
How important is light to you?
I can’t think of a fitting superlative to emphasize how important this is, but it is very important. For both the staging and the subjects that appear on the canvas, to the light/illumination during painting.
What does your work process look like? Do you work everywhere and all the time or does work only commence the moment you enter your studio?
It never stops. My visual language is literally my life, environment and loved ones. Photography is an important element for me, as a tool to remember things. Subsequently, drawings are made from these photos and I make the paintings from these drawings. The underdrawing is painted on canvas with acrylic inks until it fits, and I proceed to work it out in oil paint.
How much time do you spend on average per day in your studio?
I guess between eight and ten hours every day.
Is your studio a sacred place?
Definitely. I prefer to avoid any visitors, even from one of my gallerists. That being said, this place is also a very unique studio, due its history and the oeuvre of my family that still lives here. I don't like to use the word, but this studio also has something spiritual, almost sacred. It is the only connection I have left with my ancestors, with their identities, creations and objects that have stood still here in time.
Do you receive visitors there from collectors, curators or fellow artists?
I prefer to receive fellow artists. Personally, I am always very grateful to enter another artist’s studio, because they present you a snapshot of their work process. There is always something that I learn and take with me in terms of ideas.
What is the most beautiful studio you have ever seen?
The studio of Émile-Antoine Bourdelle in Paris has always stayed with me.
What does the ideal studio look like?
Space, order and lots of light.