Interview With Philip Straub

I.A. – Since it sometimes looks like your pictures are less illustrative and more gestural, we can feel more movement. Is there a reason?

P.S. - Yes and No! I’m constantly trying to improve, experiment, and explore new ways of working and thinking. I like to change my technique and approach from time to time along with my subject matter. So, for example, if I’ve done a series of matte paintings, say over a period of a few weeks, I may then need to get away from that rigid and methodical approach by creating more abstract gestural paintings. In addition, I may grow bored with the darker fantasy subject matter and spend a month or two creating landscape paintings or focusing on my children’s book style. All the different styles I like to work in provide feed back to one another, improving my work and expanding my abilities as I go.

I.A. - Do you think you bring classic or modern artists influences in your work?

P.S. - I most definitely bring both modern and classic artist influences to all of my work. Today, in essence, pretty much any contemporary artist out there is influenced by classic artists of the past. The interesting thing is that you then have students drawing their influences from modern Concept Artists and Illustrators which, in turn are being influenced by the old masters…so it’s a cycle of learning that goes on.

I.A. - What do you think of the evolution of art to the digital way? Do you think something is gained or lost thanks to these 'new' tools?

P.S. - I always find this subject fascinating. I think we’re still defining the rules of what is and isn’t considered art among the masses.Personally, even though I primarily use digital tools now