Artist Jenny Saville: why human bodies fascinate

Summary

Artist Jenny Saville discusses her fascination with the human body, as depicted in her latest exhibition focusing on bodies in motion and moments of peace. She clarifies that her work is not solely about female issues but rather the exploration of bodies and identity. Saville also comments on societal pressures to conform to a 'fictional normality' through plastic surgery and the evolving concept of gender and identity. She reflects on the impact of motherhood on her creativity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing artistic freedom in children.

Takeaways

• 🎨 Jenny Saville is an artist fascinated by the human body, often painting it in large, unforgiving portraits.
• 🤔 Her work is sometimes interpreted as a statement against stereotypical images of women, but she clarifies it's more about the body itself, not necessarily gender-specific issues.
• 🤝 She explores the idea of bodies in interaction, aiming to capture moments of peace and movement.
• 👀 Saville is intrigued by the endurance and transformation of bodies, particularly in the context of cosmetic surgery.
• 🏥 She was shocked by the violence of plastic surgery, which led to an interest in the 'before and after' and the concept of a fictional normality.
• 👁️‍🗨 She sees her role as an observer, using her art to reflect on what she sees in society.
• 🏳️‍🌈 Her latest exhibition delves into gender, a theme that has been present since her work in the '90s, and she finds the fluidity of gender identity interesting.
• 👶 Having children has enhanced her creativity, contrary to the stereotype that motherhood stifles artistic expression.
• 👶 She admires the creativity of her children and feels that children possess a freedom and originality in their art that is worth learning from.
• 🎓 Saville reflects on the importance of accessible education in fostering creativity, expressing concern over current educational systems that may limit opportunities for the less privileged.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Jenny Saville's artwork?

Jenny Saville's artwork primarily focuses on the human body, particularly the flesh, and how it moves. She is interested in bodies in general, not just female or male, and her work often features large, unforgiving portraits of flesh.

How does Jenny Saville respond to interpretations of her work as a statement against stereotypical images of women?

Jenny Saville acknowledges that people can interpret her work as they like, but she finds it a bit annoying when her work is solely reduced to being about female issues. She emphasizes that her work is more about memory and time, and the ability to see one body through another, rather than being confined to a specific gender perspective.

What was Jenny Saville's reaction to witnessing plastic surgery?

Jenny Saville found the process of plastic surgery to be violent and shocking, especially when she observed a breast implant procedure. She was fascinated by the notion of a 'fictional normality' that people believe they can achieve through such surgeries.

How does Jenny Saville view the idea of identity in relation to her artwork?

Jenny Saville sees identity as fluid and not fixed. She finds the idea of gender fluidity and the concept of transgender identities interesting, as it challenges traditional notions of gender and identity.

What was Jenny Saville's experience like when she was commissioned by Charles Saatchi as a young artist?

Jenny Saville describes her experience of being commissioned by Charles Saatchi as a time of extraordinary opportunity. She reflects on the changing landscape of the art world and the potential loss of opportunities for state-educated individuals.

What is Jenny Saville's opinion on the role of education in fostering creativity in the arts?

Jenny Saville believes that the education system, particularly from the 60s and 70s, played a significant role in fostering creativity by not requiring payment for university education and by integrating artistic activities into the curriculum. She is concerned that without such support, creativity in the arts may suffer.

How has motherhood influenced Jenny Saville's creativity?

Motherhood has had a positive impact on Jenny Saville's creativity. She found it shocking how creative she felt after having children and admired their level of creativity. She learned from her children's freedom in creating art.

What does Jenny Saville think about the idea that children can teach artists about creativity?

Jenny Saville believes that children can indeed teach artists about creativity. She observed her children's uninhibited approach to creating art and learned from their freedom and creativity.

What is the significance of the latest exhibition in Jenny Saville's artistic journey?

The latest exhibition is significant as it continues to develop her observations on gender, which first emerged in her paintings in the '90s. It also showcases her fascination with bodies and the action of bodies together, as well as moments of peace and movement.

How does Jenny Saville describe her role as an observer in relation to her artwork?

Jenny Saville describes herself as an observer who drifts around, observing various aspects of life and society. Making art is her way of processing and expressing these observations.