The next in my series of interviews with artists features abstract artist Jakub Sohe. Originally from Moravia in the Czech Republic, Exeter based Jakub’s inspiration lies in the interconnectedness of all things, the belief that we are not just part of nature, but nature is part of us. This philosophy translates into an artistic mission: to offer a visual sanctuary, a space for reflection and inner peace inspired by the natural world.
Jakub's fascinating work transcends mere aesthetics. It's a call to reconnect with the natural world, to find solace in its rhythms and to appreciate the interconnections between all beings. In a world consumed by noise and chaos, his art offers a quiet space for contemplation, a reminder of the beauty and harmony that lie beneath the surface.
Please enjoy finding out more about him below then head here to see his work for yourself!
What sparks your initial ideas for a piece? Is it a feeling, an image, or something else entirely?
My whole creative process is based on being present within the moment and responding to the wholeness of previous steps- it’s a conversation between me and the painting- for that reason I have no knowledge of what the painting is going to look like once it’s done (or when it’s done) until I simply know (?)
Do you have a specific routine or ritual to get into a creative head space?
Anything will do, painting is like breathing- worth doing under any circumstance but my ideal state of mind is curiosity and contemplative peacefulness.
What's your biggest happy accident that turned out amazing in a piece?
I don’t think I’ve ever finished a painting that wasn’t a happy accident; as a matter of fact I have so little input over the outcome I don’t consider myself being the one who creates but rather the one to adore and appreciate both the process and the final work.
Whats' the most challenging part of your artistic process?
The patience to sit with the painting until it reveals itself which is at the same time my favourite part. (Oh and marketing/putting myself “out there” so I am forever grateful for my collaboration with super talented and
wonderful you, Emily!!!)
Is there a hidden meaning or symbolism in your work that viewers might miss at first glance?
That the simplicity is not simple. Most of my paintings look simple at first glance but are in fact full of both big and small secrets- art is an invitation to look closer.
What piece of yours are you most proud of, and why?
Any, all and none (but mostly the ones that serve their purpose, that is, are being loved in their homes).
What are some tools or techniques you use that most people wouldn't expect?
I tend to use a lot of soil from my garden to create texture and enrich the colours.
Is there a hidden meaning or symbolism in your work that viewers might miss?
My whole painting process is a reflection and an integral part of an entire life philosophy- from stretching the canvases to layering and mark making, everything is interconnected and interwoven with the meaning and expression of being a human- and that is the thing I wish to express the most: “Being human is just and simply that.” It’s paradoxical, strange and uncertain, it’s simple yet complex and complicated; to exist is to be in communion with the being itself- that is how we can create and be created. My painting for that matter is an invitation to reflect and understand.
If you could have your art evoke one specific emotion in a viewer, what would it be?
Peacefulness.
Who are your artistic heroes, and how have they influenced your work?
There are many heroes and influences in my creative process so to round it up I will mention three that pop out first;
Rothko: for his genius of understanding of visual perception and the visceral experience one has when being in the presence of his art.
Carl G. Jung: not an artist per se (although highly recommend to look up his illustrations for The Red Book), his works have inspired me since forever and have helped me to frame my creative process and better understand the relationship between the art and the viewer.
Ha Chong-Hyun: South Korean minimalist artist and one of the founders of the Dansaekhwa movement, his work just blew me apart with its directness and sense of presence- DO LOOK HIM UP!
Does your art ever surprise you with where it ends up taking you?
Always. I suspect myself of “having” what they call aphantasia, which is basically lacking capacity for inner visualisation so I have literally no clue how a painting will look like before it's done. It’s great because that way I don’t spoil the surprise of seeing the finished piece for the first time, haha.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be doing?
I can’t imagine myself without art but I’d go with a zen buddhist monk hoping to meditate away my need for creating stuff although I am not sure how well that would work. I’m also currently in the process of studying counselling so maybe some sort of weird therapy guy, trying to convince you to seek within.
What are your ‘must have’ snacks and drinks when in the studio?
Tea that I will always spill everywhere because I keep putting my mug on the floor; followed by kicking into it when I’m engrossed in my creative process, pacing the room.
What's the best piece of artistic advice you've ever received?
You’re in this for the long run- pace yourself, find your true voice and when you find it, keep finding it some more.
You are hosting a dinner party and have invited 3 other artists (living or dead), who would be on the guest list?
Jean Baptiste Camille, J. M. W. Turner & Mark Rothko.
I would sit in the corner and observe quietly, hoping to glean into their understanding of colour and its relationship to the human experience.
Thank you Jakub for these brilliant answers! I found them so insightful!
Have a look at his available works here.
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