Artist
From Jaroměř, Hradec Králové region, Czechia
Based in Ostrava, Moravian-Silesian region, Cezchia
Sabina Knetlová is an emerging sculptor talent, she graduated last year under Jaroslav Koléšek's wing. She creates minimalist sculptures made from concrete and other acquired materials. She usually deals with her own experience and orexplores inspiration gained from nature in her works.
A: Please, tell us a bit more about yourself. How did you get into art?
S: I was encouraged by my parents since childhood to be creative, so my decision to study art was supported by them. However, I found my way to sculpture by coincidence. After I finished secondary school, I wanted to study painting, but professor Jaroslav Koléšek approached me at the entrance exam and asked me if I'd like to study sculpture instead. I thought it could be a fun adventure, so I started studying under him. And yet, the conviction that sculpture is really what I want to do, came only when I was already almost done with my studies. I felt there was certainty and security in sculpture - I'd never felt that way about anything before.
A: What inspires you the most?
S: My experience. I work intuitively, I don't plan my themes in advance. Only after some time do I analyze what exactly happened during the work process. It may sound obvious but at that moment, I am not able to grasp it yet. And, of course, I am infinitely inspired by nature. At the moment it's especially the landscape at night.
A: Do you have any specific rituals while working (creating)?
S: When I arrive at my studio, I make myself a cup of coffee. Then I wander around the studio with the hot cup in my hands, or I just sit on my couch and look around. I need that to calm my mind and reframe my head. Lately, I've been noticing that I need quiet and solitude for work. I also find work easier in the evening and in my studio, the only place I am able to focus on my work.
A: What would you recommend to someone new to art (an artist or just an admirer), what to begin with?
S: I'd say I am myself just starting out, but it's important to be genuine in your work, to work hard, and to not let it turn you off when success or positive feedback doesn't come right away.
A: Your Top 3 adjectives related to art?
S: When speaking about artworks I like, I always say "neat, great, magical!"😊
A: Do you have favorite Czech artists?
S: I have many favorites, but the three most essential artists for me are Otto Guttfreund, Jan Zrzavý, and Marius Kotrba.
A: What piece of art do you think embodies the Czech national spirit and culture? Why?
S: That's quite a complicated question, but our national symbol would be J. V. Myslbek's sculpture of St. Wenceslas. That comes to mind first.
A: The perfect way to have a conversation about art is: ...?
S: It's best to talk about a specific artwork as you're standing in front of it, then the conversation can deepen and develop further. But I personally struggle with these situations a bit, passionate conversations about art is an intimate matter forme, so I can't have such talks with just anyone.
A: Where can we meet you?
S: In my studio which is in Vítkovice, next to the Třinec Ironworks tube rolling mill. It's quite hidden away.
A: Please, share your favorite quote or idea that has guided you in your work/life (not necessarily related to art):
S: I don't have one. At least not yet. I am more inspired by stories than mottos.
Thank you!
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