MONIKA HERSCHBERGER

                                                       Based in Vienna, Austria

 

 

1. Share a bit about you and how you became an artist.

 

As a child I loved drawing, like most children. Later in my teenage years, painting became an important refuge for me, helping me in times of loneliness.  At the time, I was thematically interested in depictions of mythical female figures and goddesses,  which I painted on the walls of my room. At the same time, I started singing and developed a desire to study it professionally, which didn't excite my parents very much. They just didn't understand it. During these years, I continued to paint alongside jazz until I decided to devote myself 100% to painting in 2001. 

 

 

Artist: Monika Herschberger

 

 

 

 

 I am particularly interested in the patterns of the big city, wall structures, torn posters,

I perceive every detail. On the other hand, there is always the desire for peace, because a city is often loud. In my studio, I find such a place. 

3. Can you describe your art and your art style?

 

My art resonates with energy  - my own, the environment's, the season's. Each day it shifts: mornings bring peace, afternoons are dynamic and wild. Creating is an intuitive, multilayered process, reflecting both calm reflection and energetic movement. Themes emerge naturally, and sometimes I work on multiple series simultaneously. Titles are found afterward, often through reflection and sometimes through poetic associations made during the creative process.   

 

 

 

"Reflexions" acrylic on canvas, by Monika Herschberger. Austria.

 

 

 

 

4. Who are your biggest influences?

 

   

    

 

5. How has your career developed and evolved? 

   

I attended art school for a year, but then switched to music and studied jazz at the conservatory. At the same time, I attended courses and trained further at the University of Applied Arts. Studying art was somehow never a good fit; I'm too freedom-loving for that. I have exhibited in art clubs and small galleries. Then my son was born, I no longer wanted to live just for art, but also to enjoy my family. A lot has happened online since Corona, I also sell via Saatchi Art or Rise art and from the studio. Since 2023 I have a gallery representation. 

   

   

 

6. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? 

 

My greatest wish is to be represented in larger galleries that are equal partners for me and my art. I would also like to take part in art exhibitions and show my works internationally. Artistically, I am increasingly interested in large formats or murals and need the right framework conditions for this. e.g. a large studio. I also have an idea for an immersive art and music experience that I would like to implement. 

 

7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist? 

 

The best advice was: “Don´t  do too much” – you don’t have to take part in every exhibition. A colleague once told me this and it took me a long time to take it to heart.

  And look for partners who support you and value you as a person. Reintroduce yourself – in technology, design & theory – that’s simply part of your art. And you should learn about Marketing and Planning your Budget too - because it is your business. 

 

8. How do you balance your personal life and your art practice? 

 

 

9. How do you balance social media and your art creation? 

 

I'm currently taking a break from social media to think about a new strategy. I may have to outsource it. Or focus more on my newsletter. So that I have more time for my art. In 2024 I spent a lot of time on Linkedin, there aren't that many artists represented there and you can make good contacts. Among other things, I have now found a kind of consultant and an exhibition for 2025. 

 

   

 

10. Can you share your favorite quote and what it means to you? 

 

I like Michelle Obama's quote: "Do what you think is right. There will always be someone who thinks differently. " Which is absolutely true. Other people have other plans (for you).