Wolfgang Laib: Returning to What Is (overview)

This interview discusses with Laib his views on his practice, the art world and how he is viewed by his audiences. Laib appears to have a bold character, in that he is unafraid to refute comments made by others about his work, and although he believes he may be seen as naive, he does not waver in his opinion to satisfy others. The interview focuses mainly on his works; what his influences are and what the final pieces mean to him. He discusses how his works are often mistaken, or have ideas read into them that he would not necessarily apply, such as ideas of spirituality and nature as concept and comparisons to painting in style.

Laib maintains that his work is very indicative of himself. He states clearly that the work stems from his personal experiences; his previous work, his home, his physical space. (“My life is my work.”) He stated that studying medicine he had the same drive as now when creating art. He is confident in his abilities, and believes that art, including his own, has the ability to change the world. This suggests that his art, although set firmly in its personal origins, is very much directed to others for their ability of insight to then direct themselves.

Laib states that he prefers his works to be viewed in a gallery space, as they most often are. This appears to be due to a desire to obtain a neutral space. Explaining his choice of materials he refers to his purpose, to show the material as it is, without placement in its usual space. His practice involves isolating the material from its regular environment to allow a greater understanding of the material itself. As a social, cultural or spiritual reading, this seclusion from the restraints of the usual view opens up new interpretations on the nature of the material, why and what it is. Regardless of what it is meant to be, what might it actually have the potential to be?

A question during this interview uses the term ‘austerity’, which can be defined as severity. This could be viewed in his work, particularly in the strict, repetitive processes involved in the creation and exhibition of the final piece. The pollen is collected meticulously over a long period of time. The milkstones must be emptied of milk, cleaned and filled again for each viewing.A word frequently used by Laib in this interview is challenge. He refers to the challenge of himself as a creator, the challenge of other views of life and the challenge to change the world with his work. His work therefore seems to be about achievement. As a human being he is challenged every day and responds with a complex artistic practice centred on embracing life.