Interview: Lena Tsirulnik
Luca Curci talks with Lena Tsirulnik during CONTEMPORARY VENICE 2021 – 8TH EDITION, at THE ROOM Contemporary Art Space.

“Born in Odessa, Ukraine (USSR) in 1963. I was artistically inclined from the first years of my life. I started my education at Grekov Odessa Art School. Then I graduated from the Faculty of Architecture in Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture. Since 1991, I live in Rehovot, Israel. I am a drawing, metal, upcycling and fibre artist. I regularly participate in exhibitions and festivals. I am a founder of a multidisciplinary studio in which we create design works and organize textile master classes”.

LUCA CURCI – What’s your background? What is the experience that has influenced your work the most?
LENA TSIRULNIK – I studied architecture, and although I don’t work in the profession, I have a deep love for different materials. Pencil, brush, paper and canvas are not enough for me.

LC – Which subject are you working on?
LT – I don’t have a single theme, because there are so many impressions every day! And constantly some ideas born.

LC – Which is the role the artist plays in society? And contemporary art?
LT – I think that here we can only talk about a small part of society, which generally notices that art exists. It nourishes, heals and supports them.

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
LT – In addition to the natural world, I can sometimes draw inspiration from the most unexpected things and objects: a piece of rusty iron or a wooden part of a vintage chair can push me to create a work of art.

LC – What is the most challenging part about creating your artworks?
LT – This is an unexpected question. Honestly, it’s always easy for me to embody what I have in mind. Even if it is physically difficult: to cut hard materials, polish, roll felt.

LC- In which way the artwork presented in our exhibition is connected with the exhibition’s theme? Can you explain something about the artworks you have in our exhibition?
LT – My work “Elon Musk’s spare planet” is a sad joke about the uncertainty of the future of our world, which today still has such beautiful places as Venice.

LC – Do you think ITSLIQUID GROUP can represent an opportunity for artists? Did you enjoy cooperating with us?
LT – Yes, this is a great opportunity – at least for me. I am very pleased to participate in this exhibition and pleasantly surprised by the attention you show to each artist!