Interview: Rochelle Douglas
Luca Curci talks with Rochelle Douglas, WINNER of the ARTIST OF THE MONTH – DECEMBER 2024

The art of Rochelle Douglas, known as Mystica The Brave, represents how she sees the world differently, something she has always done and always will. Each piece becomes a mirror reflecting her unique perspective, allowing her to infuse her passion with bright colours and emotion. Where others might search for meaning, she is captivated by the void, the inexplicable, and the absurdity that underpins everyday existence. Her work is a reflection of this perception: a collision of reality and absurdity that challenges viewers to question their assumptions, laugh at the illogical, and embrace her art. She dismantles the notion of coherence and rationality, exploring the tension between what is expected and what is possible.

Luca Curci – What are your thoughts while you paint? Do you have any habits or rituals while you work?
Rochelle Douglas – The world is my inspiration. When I walk outside, look at a movie or even listen to music. How I see the water flow from the sink, to birds dancing in the summer. I keep all this in mind when I come home. I close my eyes and everything comes to life in my vision. The pencil I’m holding does the rest. I don’t really have a habit, but one thing that I always do is listen to music. That’s when I can really zone out the world.

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

LC – What is the trigger that leads you to paint?
RD – The trigger that leads me to create art is often a fleeting visual impression or emotion that I want to capture and explore further. Creating allows me to process and express these euphoric moments. Usually, when I’m overwhelmed, it helps to calm me down. But mostly when my head is filled with thoughts I can’t cope with, or when my head is spinning. That’s when I know! Okay, I need to translate this to art.

LC – Which art themes do you pursue? What is your preferred subject, if there is any?
RD – Usually, what pops up in my mind, really. This could be a range of vibrant colours and my view on things at that moment in time. Through vibrant colours, abstract shapes, and playful compositions, I aim to capture the energy and excitement of letting loose and enjoying life. But at times I also like to express my political views or things that worry me in this day in age. Things people don’t necessarily talk about or want to confront. That’s what art is all about, isn’t it? Spark debates? “Art for thought”, I always say.

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

LC – What do you think about art on social media? Are they turning into the new showcases of contemporary art?
RD – Yes, although it’s not really an artist’s favourite place to expose their art. At least I don’t like it. I have mixed feelings. On one hand, platforms like Instagram have democratised access to art and allowed artists to reach global audiences directly. They’ve become important spaces for discovering new work and connecting with other creatives. However, I worry that the pressure to constantly produce “likeable” content can lead to work that’s shallow or derivative. The best art often requires time and depth that isn’t always compatible with social media’s demands. You unwillingly start to compare yourself to other artists who have a huge following. Then the question comes. Why don’t I get that exposure? Is my art not good enough?

LC – What are the three hashtags essential to define your poetics that you could not give up?
RD – I’m not really a social media expert. But the ones I keep using are the following: #digitalart #collageart #digitalartist.

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

Image courtesy of Rochelle Douglas

LC – What do you think about the organization of our event? Did you enjoy cooperating with us?
RD – Absolutely! As for the organisation of this event and our cooperation, I’ve found it to be a positive and enriching experience. The opportunity to engage in dialogue about artistic process and share perspectives with fellow creatives is invaluable. Events like this that foster community and deeper reflection on art-making are crucial for the continued evolution of contemporary art.