First Prize for Realism 2007

BLUE TURBAN

Artist: Latrache Abderrahmane
Home: Morocco
Medium: Pastel on pastel card
Size: 650 x 850 x 1 mm
Price: $800

Portrait of saharien woman.

Born in Taza (Morocco) on 1954th. Parallel to my studies of medicine at the Catholic University in Leuwen (BELGIUM) I followed evening courses at the Superior Artistic school in Brussels and attended the workshops of Masters Belgian pastellists.

Art Dept Interview

Please describe your current works and any plans for forthcoming exhibits.

Each year, I plan at least one exhibition in Morocco and another one abroad.

Do you think that the fine artist will survive as technology replaces our skills?

Of course I do. The technology never replaces a fine artist. A painting can never be reproduced even by the artist himself, which makes it unique and rare.

What advice could you give to those embarking upon a career as an artist?

Nowadays, it appears to be very difficult to be a’ famous’ artist. First an artist has to find his own style and not to follow fashion because only art remains. Secondly, he has to persevere and never give up because it is always difficult to convince.

Why did you enter the Art Dept contest and what decided your selection for entry?

I always take part in contests. I have already won first prizes from France, Spain and Morocco. To me it is an opportunity to share my art with others artists and to be known.

Is there anything about being an artist that you do not like?

I do not like selling my paintings; I think it is not my job. I am only concerning by painting.

Would you sell your most favourite artwork, or keep it?

I would sell it.

How important was education and training to you?

Training helps to improve skills but the most important for me are creativity and imagination.

If you were invited overseas to exhibit your works, where would you like that to be?

I am open to any suggestions. I like travelling all over the world

Are you looking forward to entering the contest for next year?

Maybe with another painting

Do you recommend use of the Internet for an artist's publicity?

Absolutely

Would you change anything about how the contest is organised?

No I would not

How can the Internet be made better for working artists?

Internet is a big opportunity to make publicity for an artist.