A Day in the Studio of Artist Anja Struck

The painter Anja Struck places the human being at the centre of her work and stages them in landscapes, sequences of movements or in the form of portraits. Anja Struck achieves a special atmosphere in her pictures through deliberate blurring: motifs and contours merge and dissolve into veils of colour.

We visited the painter Anja Struck in Lüneburg, Germany, and accompanied her for a day. We spoke with the artist about her path to art and her inspiration.

Ms Anja Struck, how did you become interested in art?

At the age of five, I wanted to stick my pictures on the walls of my parents' flat with tape and glue. But they didn't really want that. I had a strong urge to paint since early childhood.

When did you know that you wanted to become an artist?

The moment I started thinking about my future. In high school, I began working on a portfolio.

What inspires you?

Moods that I perceive or feel, whether in people or in nature.

Which artist has had the greatest influence on you and your work?

I am sometimes told to have paintings similar to those of Gerhard Richter. In fact, many of the figurative works by this talented artist touch me deeply. But the biggest influence on me was Prof. Markus Lüpertz during my studies with him. He gave me many important impulses.

Where do you prefer to paint?

In my beautiful studio, a former distillery in the middle of Lüneburg's old town. The building is located in a courtyard - a retreat where I can work undisturbed.

What does a typical day in your life as an artist look like?

I'm in the studio by 9 a.m. at the latest. I sit down in front of the painting I will be working on. Once I know where and how to start, I mix colours. As soon as I make the first brushstroke, I forget about time and space. I fully immerse myself in the painting. I take hardly any breaks. The end of the workday is open, depending on what the painting demands that I'm currently working on.

Which material and techniques do you prefer to use?

Oil paint is my paint: the consistency, the smell, the slow drying, the brilliance.

What was your most memorable experience?

I exhibited at the "art expo" art fair in New York in 2019. I simply loved New York so much that I would have liked to stay there for at least half a year to work.

What advice would you give to young artists who are just beginning?

To be courageous about their work. Never say, "I'm not that good yet."

Have you discovered another artist on artSOLITAIRE whose work you admire?

I find the portraits by Michael Bajer very exciting.

What do you think you would be doing today if you hadn't become an artist?

I would either be an interior designer or a stage designer.

Do you have a favourite museum? If so, which one and why?

The Fondation Beyeler in Basel always has very exciting exhibitions. I also enjoy going to the Bucerius Kunst Forum in Hamburg.

Do you have a current favourite piece of art among your own works?

My favourite piece is always the painting I am currently working on.

Which exhibition or award are you particularly proud of? Or are you currently planning an exhibition?

I am proud that I have been able to exhibit outside of Europe several times. I am happy about the cultural promotion prize from the Lüneburg district.

Anja Struck, do you have any wishes for your future? What are your aspirations and goals?

It is important to me to live fully in the here and now. Just as I fully immerse myself in the painting I'm working on, I want to fully embrace every moment in my life.

Thank you very much for the interview!

Discover all the works of the artist Anja Struck on artSOLITAIRE.de.