Sonia Ben Achoura – Q&A - The Flux Review

French artist Sonia Ben Achoura generates innovative works of art at the intersection between art and science. With a background in psychology, her fascination with human nature at the present stage of evolution (characterised by pervasive interaction with technology) manifests in geometric compositions with futuristic overtones. Art and science converge in her paintings as her distinctive vision unfolds throughout an extensive body of work. Her elaborate art vocabulary allows her to bring to life powerful conceptualisations of mental phenomena. These often take on the form of psychological icons, or templates.

Captivated by abstraction, her art nevertheless lies between the abstract and the figurative. The artist shapes light and colour as the basis for her compositions, which she executes in both oils and acrylics. Intimations of perfection, her paintings are born out of an interplay between light and matter. She creates a world of vivid colour, dynamic forms, and geometric perfection. The artist’s concern for our planet, in these times of climate change, is expressed in her paintings. She contemplates future outcomes in her works.

Inspired by academic research, science, or nature, her 2D works appear flat at first glance, yet reveal endless movement and depth upon closer inspection. The result is a sense of ‘Gestalt’, a lasting sense of coherence and timelessness.

Sonia lives and works in London. She exhibits her work at galleries and international art fairs, and contributes regularly to publications.

Self-taught or art school?

I am a self-taught artist. I initially studied psychology, obtaining a masters in health psychology at London Metropolitan University. I learnt art over the years, through practice and self-directed study.

If you could own one work of art what would it be?

If I could own one work of art, it would be the painting entitled ‘Standing in Blue’ by Loie Hollowell. This is a mysterious piece. It is a balanced, yet dynamic composition. I am fascinated by the diversity of media she uses in her work. This piece was executed with oils, acrylic medium, sawdust, and high-density foam on linen mounted on panel! There is a timelessness about Hollowell’s work that I find captivating. I love the way she encompasses both spirituality and sexuality.

How would you describe your style?

I have a passion for creating unique works of art at the intersection of art and science. With a previous career as a psychologist, I channel my insights into the human psyche onto canvas. My fascination with human nature at the present stage of evolution manifests in geometric compositions with futuristic overtones. My art lies between the abstract and the figurative. Light and colour are essential to my compositions. My inner world manifests on canvas through vivid colour, dynamic forms, and geometric perfection.

Can you tell us about your artistic process?

My paintings have been referred to as ‘intimations of perfection’. They can take months to complete due to the level of detail they entail. I only start a painting once I have developed a strong conceptualisation of a given subject. This usually involves a thorough process of research. I work in series, often on several paintings simultaneously. Once in a while, I am struck by a powerful idea that completely takes over. This type of inspiration is magical, never to be disregarded!

Is narrative important within your work?

My paintings are often inspired by research that is meaningful to the development of individuals, society, or the preservation of life on Earth. My concern for the environment transpires throughout my works, as I contemplate future outcomes. The potential for a partnership between mankind and nature is envisaged as I weave organic forms over the fabric of robotic geometry. Issues touching on social justice increasingly manifest in my work.

Who are your favourite artists and why?

I was inspired by Da Vinci from an early age. I went on to become an artist and social scientist, which makes perfect sense. Science is the starting point; art finalizes the process. I am also inspired by Vasari and Hollowell. Their work emanates a meditative timelessness that I never tire of.

What or who inspires your art?

Art for me is like breathing. It is a way of thinking. I carry out a lot of research on my topics of interest. Art completes the research process. If I seem to run out of inspiration, travelling is always a wonderful solution!

Where’s your studio and what’s it like?

My studio is at home. I’ve always preferred having all I need under one roof and being able to work whenever inspiration strikes! This was particularly helpful during lockdown, a time of frantic artistic activity. As a result, my studio is now full of paintings. Fortunately, galleries are now reopening!

Do you have any studio rituals?

I begin my art practice to the sound of Tibetan bells, a sound that I associate with entering a creative state of mind. I paint in sessions of 3 to 8 hours, either in silence or with ambient music in the background.

What are you working on currently?

I am currently working on two different series. The first is entitled ‘The Future of Life’. It started out as a triptych on the topic of climate change, and has now become a collaboration with a collective based in Barcelona to transform these paintings into a 3D experience. The second series was initiated at the death of George Floyd, a shocking event after which I spent three days writing poetry, which is unusual for me. This series of paintings is my most detailed series of works to date. I look forward to publishing these written and visual works as a book.

Where can we buy your art?

My art can be purchased directly on my website at www.soniabenachoura.com.

Paintings are also available on Saatchi Online, Artpal, and Facebook.

Prints and merchandise are available on Society6 and Etsy.

Sonia Ben Achoura – Q&A

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