Catia Goffinet has a great passion for simple and pure lines of geometry and likes the idea of transforming them into art creating shapes through straight lines. Catia's work varies between the purity of forms and the creation of elements that sometimes give the notion of organic forms. She believes that everything in the universe is mathematical and connected and that the connection between us and the universe is through imaginary lines.
1) Which art movement do you consider most influential on your practice?
I believe modernism is the artistic movement that most influences my work.
2) Where do you go and when to make your best art?
I live in Sao Paulo, Brazil close to the mountainous in the middle of the Atlantic forest: Serra da Cantareira which is considered the largest urban forest in the world. This place inspires me and makes me feel more connected with myself and my art. I have a studio at my home where I spend most of my time doing my art.
3) How do you describe your 'creative process'?
I would describe it as intuitive and at the same time observatory. I like to watch, for example, the shadows projected on the walls at sunset. At this moment, many geometric shapes and reflections are formed. Through this I start mixing transparencies and layers of colors.
4) Which artist, living or deceased, is the greatest inspiration to you?
My best inspiration is Alfredo Volpi. It was at his exhibition that I started my first work with geometrical traces. I felt in love with the study of colors that he works.
5) If you weren't an artist, what would you do?
That question has always surrounded my mind. Before dedicating myself exclusively to study art, I graduated in administration and law. I spent several years working for a large company as a lawyer, but always thinking that art was just a hobby for me. In the last 4 years I have dedicated myself exclusively to my art and I am sure that this is my path and what makes me happy and what I want to do.
6) What do you listen to for inspiration?
Rock and Roll.
7) If you could own one artwork, and money was no object, which piece would you acquire?
“Le bonheur de vivre” by Henri Matisse. I love his artwork.
8) If your dream museum or collection owner came calling, which would it be?
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
9) What is your key piece of advice for artists embarking on a fine art or creative degree today?
Don't judge your art as good or bad. It's just about opinions. Never accept when someone tells you "no". Use that to improve yourself and your art. Never give up and believe in yourself. There are always other doors and paths to go. Everything is possible.
10) What is your favorite book of all time (fiction or non fiction)?
The $ 12 Million Stuffed Shark: The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art, Don Thompson.
11) If you could hang or place your artwork in one non traditional art setting, where would that be?
I would have my works in Brazilian prisons. I believe art can transform, inspire and motivate people. Also I believe art can make your life better and colorful and change the way you look at life.
12) What was the biggest lesson your university course or time studying taught you?
So far I learned that both art and the artist are not static. Sometimes you can follow paths that seem wrong or confused but are part of the creative process itself. The artist should not be afraid. Fear is a limitless. You must be free to express yourself without other's opinions. This is the way to discover yourself and improve your art.
13) And finally, if we were to fast forward 10 years, where would we find you?
I would certainly be surrounded by paints, my artwork, my two dogs, a glass of wine, listening to rock music with a huge smile on my face. This is the life I love and want for myself.
Learn more about Catia and discover her collection of artworks.
