In Conversation with Mikail Akar: the 11-Year-Old Prodigy Redefining Art
Embark on a fascinating journey into the extraordinary world of Mikail Akar, an 11-year-old self-taught artist from Cologne, Germany whose creativity knows no bounds. A young artist whose artworks have not only commanded five-figure prices but have also earned him global acclaim.
Being the first European artist to wield a brush at the top of the iconic Empire State building in New York City, or making history as the youngest exhibitor at Miami Art Week’s Spectrum Art Fair in 2023, Akar is a young visionary. In an exclusive interview, he shares the story behind his artistic journey, shedding light on the significance of representing children in the field of art.
You have become an example in child art representation. Can you share a bit about yourself and how you got started in creating art?
My journey in art began at the age of four. Even then, my interest and natural talent for abstract painting was known. This early phase was really important for me and my development as an artist. When I was just four years old, I had the opportunity to present my works in my first exhibition. This event not only marked the beginning of my career but was also a moving moment for my father, Kerem Akar. He saw in me not just a young artist, but a special talent that needed to be nurtured.
When you turn abstract ideas into paintings, how do you approach the process to make them tangible and expressive?
My artistic process is connected to my intuition and spontaneous inspiration. Ideas often come to me at unexpected times, sometimes even in the middle of the night. I usually feel a strong urgency to bring this idea to the canvas immediately. It is as if the inspiration will not rest until it is visualized. Turning abstract ideas into paintings is a fascinating and free process. I focus on expressing my thoughts and emotions through colors, shapes, and textures. I give free rein to my creativity and experiment with different techniques and materials.
Can you tell us about your experience of live painting on the top of the Empire State in New York City?
Painting on the Empire State building was a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to paint in extraordinary places. The atmosphere and view from this iconic building energized my creativity. The New York skyline influenced my artwork by capturing the dynamism and spirit of the city, and this experience strengthened my desire to paint in other famous places around the world and take my art to new levels.
As the youngest exhibitor at Miami Art Week’s Spectrum Art Fair, who or what inspires you in the art world or beyond?
Being the youngest exhibitor at the Spectrum Art Fair during Miami Art Week was an incredible experience. It was an honor to be alongside the best artists from around the world, and the diversity and high caliber of artwork on display was impressive. I was surrounded by exceptional talent whose creativity and vision inspired me deeply.
I draw inspiration from artists like Jackson Pollock, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Gerhard Richter. My influences also include music, especially hip-hop, which resonates with me creatively. All of these influences shape my unique perspective and allow me to contribute to contemporary art in my own way.
Among all your artworks, do you have a favorite painting? If so, could you share why it’s your favorite?
My favorite painting is the first painting I did. It’s so special to me because it started everything. It marked the beginning of my journey as an artist.
Art can mean different things to different people. What does art personally mean to you?
For me, art is a form of relaxation. When I paint, I immerse myself in a world in which only the canvas, the colors, and my thoughts exist. In these moments, I find calm and inner peace, and art is also a source of joy. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing a blank sheet of paper or a blank canvas come to life. Every brushstroke brings color and light into my world and reflects the happiness I feel when I paint.
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