MARK BERN PRESENTS "ABSTRACT PIXELISM". HOW THE DIGITAL WORLD IS EXPANDING CREATIVITY

MARK BERN

1. Tell us about your life as an Internet entrepreneur before you ventured into Fine Art.

Back in the 90s, I was constantly surrounded by geeks, hackers and other innovators in the field of Information Technology and I used a computer to start my own Internet Company at the age of 19. In those days computers were not really part of our lives like they are today, so I was excited by the idea of creating art with these new electronic tools.

I had quite an unorthodox journey into the art world. For years I was creating art prints for myself on my computer. A few years ago, I had a few friends over who were constantly complimenting my work without realising it was created by me. After the support of several friends in the art world, I decided to send a few of my pieces to an art event. My work was an instant hit so I started my career as a pixel artist.

 

2. Do you think the booming digital world is changing the way we see and approach Art? If yes, How ?

Definitely! The growth of the digital world has affected every facet of our lives, including the way we see and approach art. From Photoshop to Instagram filters, it seems as if everyone these days can call themselves an artist. Modern technology and the digital world has certainly expanded the potential of creativity. But the ownership of computers does not make us all artists, just as purchasing paintbrushes does not make anyone the next Michelangelo. The expansion of creative digital accessibility to the public, however, has allowed people from different backgrounds a chance to express themselves in new unique ways.

 

" From Photoshop to Instagram filters, it seems as if everyone these days can call themselves an artist. Modern technology and the digital world has certainly expanded the potential of creativity. But the ownership of computers does not make us all artists, just as purchasing paintbrushes does not make anyone the next Michelangelo. "

  

3. Your work has been described as "Abstract Pixelism” or “New Cubism”. What, to you, is a pixel ? 

For me a pixel is the basis of everything in the digital world. If you look into the modern world, you will notice everything is a pixel. Now we don’t see it with great technology, like smartphones and LED screens, but to me, the simple pixel, the square at the end is still the basis of everything in the world.

I started to play with pixels on computers more than 20 years ago. When I was I teenager and as far as I know, there is no artist focusing on the same style as mine. My art reflects the modern digital zeitgeist of today’s generation. It is abstract, pixelated, flashy and gaudy.

 

" My art reflects the modern digital zeitgeist of today’s generation. It is abstract, pixelated, flashy and gaudy. "

  
4. What are your works mostly inspired by ? 

Nature and its power, but mainly life with its various facets. For me, art is a unique way to express the essence of all interactions in life.

 

" For me, art is a unique way to express the essence of all interactions in life "

 

5. Talk us through the digital processes you use to create your abstract forms ? 

There are several creative phases and working steps to take. From the empty screen to the final art piece, it can take a few hours up to a few weeks. My goal is to bring digital and computer based art to reality and therefore create an impact into real life.

 
6. You make fantastic use of the 3D printer to create your sculptures. Do you see new technologies coming onto the market that you may want to use in the further development of your Art ? 

Thanks a lot! I want to extend the usage of these new tools and possibilities to reach the next level for my computer based pixel art in real life. There are infinite amount of possibilities in-store to continue to explore a new frontier in 3D technology. I have some ideas to do installations, such as real-time print with several printers creating a new dimension.

In general I see a lot of opportunities in the digitization and new technologies. It will lead mankind to the next level of evolution. On the other hand, like in the past, new technologies always have a downside and we should be aware of that. Personally I’m very excited to see how technology, computer power and artificial intelligence will change our lives in future.

7. What work are you most proud of and why ?

I really like my art piece "Pixel Cube". It combines digital pixel art with the power and possibilities of 3D printing and creates a physical pixel sculpture.

 
8. You currently reside in both Zurich and Berlin. Does either city influence your work or way of thinking in any way ?

I was born and raised in Zurich and since a few years, I spent a lot of my time in Berlin. As long as you are surrounded be inspiring people you are always influenced in a positive way so, in my case, I get inspirations all over the world.

Mark Bern​
@markbernart

RedD PR