Anthony Bell - Abstract Artist. Studios in Brazil, Spain and the United Kingdom.
Interview with Anthony Bell on the Life & Work of Joan Miro (1893 - 1983)
GO: Hello again Tony, before we get into Joan Miró's world, can we begin with your story? What pulled you into the many worlds of Abstract Art?
AB: Sure, I came into this world in London. During my teenage years, I found myself right in the middle of the 'Swinging 60s. I spent a decade as a singer in the music industry. I crossed paths with my wife Marcia, and we decided to make Brazil our home in 1978. We lived, worked, and brought up our children there throughout the 80s. In 1991, we headed back to England as I wanted to get back in touch with my roots. While taking care of my family, I was always on the lookout for ways to express my creativity.
At 70, I retired, and we packed up and moved to Spain in 2020. Art runs in my family - both my parents were artists too so I guess that's where I get my artistic side from. I dove headfirst into learning about Art History and trying out different techniques, which led me to create my own unique abstract art. My work draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of my life, having soaked up influences from the various countries I've called home. For me, abstract art gives rise to creative inspiration and allows me to express myself. I see each new day as a blank canvas just waiting to be filled with colour and life!
GO: Tony, looking around your studio I can see how your life lived across continents is a constant source of inspiration; Carnival No.2 from your recent Collection 2024 is a joyful painting inspired by Brazil’s famous carnivals. Let's talk about Joan Miró now. How would you describe Joan Miró to someone who doesn't know his work?
AB: Joan Miró was a Catalan artist who painted, sculpted, and made ceramics. He was born on April 20, 1893, and died on December 25, 1983. People know him for his dreamy, playful works that mix Surrealism and abstract art. Miró's art stands out for its bright colours, fun shapes, and unique symbols. His style changed over time, but he always tried to break free from old art rules, pushing the limits of what art could be.
GO: People often call Miró's art playful and whimsical. Can you tell us more about what led to this style in his work?
AB: Miró drew inspiration from many places. Catalan folk art and Spanish landscapes had a big impact on him. His early contact with Fauvism and Cubism also shaped his artistic vision. What's more, Miró found inspiration in the subconscious and dream world, which shows up in the surreal and fantastical parts of his art. He once said, "I try to apply colours like words that shape poems, like notes that shape music." This poetic and musical way of making art allowed him to create pieces that catch the eye and touch the heart.
GO: "The Farm" is one of Miró's most famous works. What makes this painting special in his art collection?
AB: "The Farm" stands out because it shows Miró's shift from his earlier, more realistic style to his later abstract and surreal approach. He painted it between 1921 and 1922, showing his family's farm in Mont-roig del Camp with lots of details and bright colours. The painting mixes order with a bit of fantasy, showing everyday country life in a way that looks real but also dreamlike. Ernest Hemingway bought the painting and said it was "a summary of my whole life in the countryside." This piece is important because it marks a big change in Miró's career and shows how he could make normal scenes look magical.
GO: How did Miró's style change over time, and what were some key things that shaped this change?
AB: Miró's style changed a lot during his career. At first, he was into the detailed realism of Fauvism and Cubism. But after he moved to Paris in the 1920s, he started hanging out with the Surrealists, which changed his art. His style became more abstract and symbolic, with bold colours and simple shapes. The Spanish Civil War and World War II also affected his art, making it darker and more intense. Even with these changes, Miró's work stayed playful and experimental. He always looked for new ways to show his inner visions, whether through painting, sculpture, pottery, or even big public artworks.
GO: What did Joan Miró leave behind, and how has his work affected modern art?
AB: Joan Miró left a huge mark on art. He created tons of paintings, sculptures, pottery, and public installations. His new ways of using colour, shape, and symbols have had a big impact on the art world. Miró's mix of abstract and surreal elements has inspired many artists to push their own creativity. Today's artists still get ideas from his fun but deep approach to art. Places like the Fundació Joan Miró in Barcelona keep his work safe and show it off so future generations can appreciate what he did for art. You can see Miró's influence in everything from modern abstract painting to street art, which shows he's one of the most important artists of the 20th century.
GO: Thanks, Tony, for sharing what you know about Joan Miró. His work shows the spirit of creativity and new ideas that obviously still inspires artists all over the world.
AB: I'm glad to help Gav, Miró's work shows how powerful imagination can be and how many possibilities there are in abstract art. I'm happy we could explore his fascinating world together. I’m currently exploring Miro’s work myself and intend to start a series of paintings under the working title of “Nod To Mr M”
GO: Tony that’s exciting news following your recent Collection 2024, which featured “Nod To Mr K No.2” influenced by the father of abstract art - Wassily Kandinsky. I look forward to seeing your first artwork from this new exploration, as well as meeting up again to discuss the life and work of Eduardo Chillida.
Anthony Bell - Abstract Artist
From my Studio in Almeria, Spain
Email: anthonybellart@gmail.com
“A simple line painted with the brush can lead to freedom and happiness.”
Joan Miró
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