Marc V, born in 1970 in Oostende, Belgium, was immersed in creativity from an early age, with crayons and Lego blocks as his childhood companions. Growing up during the dawn of home computing, he developed a lasting fascination with technology, even before the advent of the internet. This early exposure to innovation sparked a lifelong curiosity for the new and unconventional, paired with a deep appreciation for the tension and contradictions inherent in creative expression. His artistic journey was further shaped by his studies at the Henri Van de Velde Institute in Antwerp, Belgium, and the Fachhochschule für Gestaltung in Pforzheim, Germany, where he cultivated a nuanced admiration for both classical art and avant-garde design.

As a young dreamer, Marc aspired to design cars—a seemingly unattainable goal given the absence of car design schools or opportunities in Belgium. Undeterred by these challenges, he pursued his passion with relentless determination. Two decades into his career, after leading a car design studio at the world’s largest car manufacturer for over a decade, Marc realized he had achieved his dream. However, he began to notice a growing disconnect between his professional life and his personal values. The repetitive nature of his work left little room for creativity, and he found himself increasingly occupied with tasks that conflicted with his beliefs. This realization prompted him to step away from the automotive industry and seek a new path where he could fully embrace his creative instincts.

Marc’s artistic philosophy is rooted in complexity and harmony, where diverse elements converge to create multilayered experiences. This approach is not limited to his art but extends to his culinary interests, where he finds inspiration in the sophisticated pairing of contrasting flavors, such as steak and Roquefort sauce. Each morning, he awakens with an insatiable thirst for creativity, fueled by a steaming cup of coffee. Whether through hand-drawn sketches, digital sculptures, or animations, Marc’s work is characterized by a fusion of opposing elements. He seamlessly integrates scans, photographs, film, and even a touch of mysticism to craft pieces that challenge and captivate the viewer. Motion is a recurring theme in his creations, evident even in the design of his garden table, which adheres to the principles of his automotive design philosophy.

Central to Marc’s art is the invitation to pause and reflect on the essence of a fulfilling life—a question he believes is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced world. His digital candle collection, for instance, serves as both a talisman and a meditation tool, blurring the boundaries between art and design. Through his work, Marc explores themes that resonate with his identity as a privileged, middle-aged man with the time and space to reflect. He delves into questions such as the nature of fear, the importance of truth, the distinction between reality and illusion, how much chaos is needed or something to look real? and the need to reevaluate habits. His art also grapples with broader philosophical inquiries, such as the definition of art, the border between design and art, the implications of embracing change, and the meaning of freedom for all. Above all, Marc’s work is a reflection of his ongoing quest to understand his impact on the world, his identity, and the person he aspires to be.

In essence, Marc V’s artistic journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to creativity, self-discovery, and the pursuit of harmony in a world of contradictions. His work challenges viewers to engage with profound questions while celebrating the beauty of complexity and motion.

 

 

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