Australian artist Eugene Plotnikov comes correct with his weird nightmarish illustrations and gives us some insight into his work, his background and what makes him tick.
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Eugene Plotnikov. I’m an Illustrator, Artist, Graphic Designer. Perhaps all three are synonymous.
Why do you do what you do?
Drawing calms me down, helps me think and keeps me happy. It’s also rewarding as hell.
What’s your background?
I was born in Russia and have been living in Australia since I was four.
Are there any themes that are concurrent throughout your work, or is each illustration different?
I like to explore the darker side of things because it’s always more thought provoking. The consistency of my themes is that they all reflect my emotions, but each does tell a different story.
What’s your strongest childhood memory?
My strongest memory is when I was around four, I was at a playground and some older boys were building sandcastles and burning spiders in them with matches.
I got scared shitless waiting for a general anaesthetic once and running away from the law is always frightening.
When are you happiest?
I’m happiest when I’m free of stress and with the people I love. Also, nothing can really compare to the feeling of finishing an artwork that you’re really happy with.
Who’s your favourite artist?
Currently my favourite artist is Alex Pardee. Hopefully his influence can be seen in my work!
What’s the worst job job you’ve ever done?
Working at a fast food establishment that will remain nameless.
What are the things in life that inspire you the most?
My interactions with others and how I’m feeling at the time. Music plays a huge role in my inspiration. Sometimes the right song can spark a piece and is hence named after it.
Do you do any research or sketching for your work or are your pictures made up as you go along?
I variate in my development methods. Sometimes I enjoy the freedom of no knowing where I’ll take the drawing. Other times I have a specific intention or image to achieve and I carefully sketch and plan.
What’s your favourite or most inspirational place?
I’m more inspired by places that I haven’t been to, and want to experience, rather than places I’ve been, so take me to New York or something god dammit.
“Man, fuck haters.” Like Ghostface Killah said, “I feed off.. uh .. something M.C’s or something..” – Panok
I have no idea. I constantly become interested in different areas of design and art, and my ideas fluctuate. I would love to travel the US and Europe to have exhibitions and let my art reach as many people as possible and meet some chillers.
NED BIGGS
