Vincent Langaard

Question 1: Can you describe your creative process from conception to completion? What sources of inspiration do you draw upon most frequently in your work?

I work from necessity. That is to say, I usually have a crystal clear image in my head of what I want to make before I make it. And if the image is not there, I don’t make anything.

I usually work from a combination of source materials and fantasy, but over the years I’ve tried to rely more on my abilities of imagination rather than observation. I usually paint either with oil or acrylic airbrush, but regardless of the final medium, every painting starts with a physical sketch.

The sketch is usually drawn in a small sketchbook, before being transferred and improved digitally on an iPad. Once the digital version is complete I use a grid system to enlarge the sketch proportionally correct onto the canvas. And from this point on I just paint, trying to rely as little as possible on any reference pictures.

Conceptually I'm fascinated by the power of the story. How a story, if potent enough in its conviction and repetition can change the perception of human reality. As such I draw a lot of inspiration from famous stories, either in the shape of mythology, childhood memories, video games, movies, viral content or contemporary social phenomena.

Question 2: How has your style and approach to art evolved over the years? Are there any particular moments or experiences that significantly influenced your artistic development?

As a young art student, I was fascinated by impressionist artists and tried to emulate their way of painting. Throughout the years however my brushstrokes have smoothened, my compositions have become more stylistic and my imagery more fantastical and exaggerated. In terms of my approach to art, I think I've become less strict with myself, more loose and focused on having fun rather than having something important to say.

I am constantly influenced by other artists, especially contemporary painters such as Van Mannen, Jean Pierre Roy, Sasha Gordon, Katelyn Ledford, Oli Epp, and Pol Eduard and they deeply inspire me to push the medium, skill and imagery further.

Question 3: What messages or emotions do you aim to convey through your art? How do you hope your audience will interpret and connect with your work?

I want my work to be at once visually impressive and fun, yet also hinting at a more serious undertone capable of starting a conversation. There is often an intentional childish undertone to my paintings, which to me equates to honesty. I hope my work contributes to making people's everyday lives better: a little bit more exciting, more fun and perhaps more interesting.