Linda-Saskia Menczel

What themes does your work involve?

The synergy between art, science and faith. The featured piece (Celestial Mechanics of Providence) is the tale of the traces of providence in human history through scientific discovery, epiphany, as well as natural talents and intuitions of humans.

Describe your creative process.

It all begins with extensive research into the different topics. In the case of Celestial Mechanics of Providence, the research took about two years, in which I selected symbols from mathematics, particle physics, genetics, chemistry, cosmology, music, sacred geometry, sacred texts, inscriptions in Greek, Hebrew, Syriac, and so on, as well as biographical notation ( latitude and longitude of places on Earth with special meaning for me), as well and instances when divine providence was clearly at work in human history. only after the theoretical framework is clear, do I start the actual creative process. The old piano became an artwork, equipped with a kinetic piece (of moving gears) and a midi system in order to turn it into an instrument as well.

What influences your work? What inspires you? Why do you make art?

I believe in the positive, educational purpose of art and the responsibility the artist assumes in order to bring beauty and meaning back into the artistic process. Therefore I use art as a platform to deliver constructive, awe-inspiring messages to a world that seems to need it. I am inspired by all the latest scientific finds as well as the depth of the Hebrew language and the Christian faith, therefore I use all these in concert, with reference to the evolution of humanity and the role of providence and free will.

What are your goals and plans as an artist in 2023?

The artwork will be part of a month-long festival during Timisoara 2023 European Capital of Culture year, in which visitors are invited to interact with the piece, play music, and participate in cultural events that include this piece.

How do recent advancements in technology affect your art practice? How may recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (image generator software) affect the definition of fine art?

In my case, technology is important because as a sculptor I use tools that were previously unavailable to artists. I believe immersive experiences are powerful and a good platform to not only create beauty and awe but also meaning. Ai-generated images are here to stay and I see no competition between the classical artist and people that create with the help of Ai, in the end, for the public, the feeling and the message are paramount and not the tech or hand that generated them.

What is the role of the artist today?

The role of the artist is to be a constructive voice, in a world that has largely lost its way, and anything is considered valuable. Well, not everything has a positive value, not all art brings value into the world. Therefore, perhaps it is time to refrain from narcissism, obscenity, and the grotesque, and bring back beauty, balance, and hope.

What is good art? What makes a piece of art great?

Good art brings beauty and meaning into people's lives. It is easy to be the voice of criticism, but harder to become a builder of a better world. Good art must have the courage to become beautiful again and regain its place as a proponent of hope and faith.