Artist Spotlight: Richard Ahnert

Art

Mar 1

Written By

I realllllyyyy hope to one day use some of Richard Ahnert in a project. I would love to design a kids room around the Union Fox piece (the first one below), it's such a killer piece, full of personality.

Richard's work is so whimsical and his attention to detail is impeccable! We both used to be graphic designers so we're obviously kindred spirits.

Let learn more about Richard Ahnert...

Tell me a bit about your journey, were you always an artist?

Yes, indeed. Always have been an artist. (don't we all start that way?) A lifetime of various art studies and workshops surprisingly led me to become a graphic designer for a number of years. Eventually, I found my way back to pushing paint, and today it still remains my full time career.

As designers we see an evolution in our style and aesthetic, I assume the same holds true for artists. What was your evolution like? How has it evolved?

You alway push yourself as an artist to discover new paths and methods. It doesn't always work out, and rarely does it keep. The basics of my work have always remained the same however. Story telling.

Keep the subject matter interesting to myself and that will translate onto others.

What is the message behind your art? What do you want people to take away or feel through your pieces?

This, I entirely leave up to the viewer. I don't believe in force feeding messages to art lovers.

Take what you will from the art. As long as it creates dialogue and stimulates imagination.

Did you ever have insecurities with sharing your work? If so how did you get over that?

Not really no. Literature is meant to be read, music heard, and art seen... Love it or hate, it makes no difference to me. Just thanks for looking!

Sometimes I come across a quote that speaks to my core so intensely I have to share it with others. Do you have a favourite quote that has touched you or pushed you in some way?

No particular quote, sticks throughout life as meaningful. They shift depending on where you are in life. But to play nicely: "It takes a long time to become young" ~Picasso

What's been the toughest part about turning your passion/art into a business?

Honestly its been nothing but enjoyable. Always discovering new aspects to the process keeps it all very interesting for me.

Who are your favourite artists or influences and why?

Like quotes, music and life, that is always changing.

Five favourite things right now?