artists
Expressions of chaos: Mathias Masarati abstract carnival
In this conversation, we’ll explore Mathias’s journey and his ability to merge abstraction with representational elements allows for a dynamic dialogue within his pieces, making each work both thought-provoking and visually captivating.
Join us as we engage with Mathias and gain valuable insights into his experiences and aspirations. Let’s get started!
Background and Inspiration:
● Can you tell me about your background as an artist? How did you get started?
My journey as an artist began early, just being a kid drawing monsters and characters in all my schoolbooks. It was hard for me to focus on all classes from early on, but I loved to do arts n craft. I grew up in Hamar, a small town outside of Oslo, Norway, with a strong passion for snowboarding and finding my own line down the hill, being creative with different objects in the slope. To how you ride a jump or a rail. However, in 2014, I felt a deep desire to express myself through a different medium, so I traded my snowboard for brushes and moved to Oslo to study at Einar Granum School of Fine Arts. After two years in Art School, I found a small studio space I could rent for some paintings in exchange for a studio space. Was not allowed to live there, but I had no money so i stayed there all day and night painting, eating crackers and bananas to survive. Had small pop-up shows and sold custom painted t-shirts on the side. Grinding and having a vision of what I wanted to do.
Join us as we engage with Mathias and gain valuable insights into his experiences and aspirations. Let’s get started!
Background and Inspiration:
● Can you tell me about your background as an artist? How did you get started?
My journey as an artist began early, just being a kid drawing monsters and characters in all my schoolbooks. It was hard for me to focus on all classes from early on, but I loved to do arts n craft. I grew up in Hamar, a small town outside of Oslo, Norway, with a strong passion for snowboarding and finding my own line down the hill, being creative with different objects in the slope. To how you ride a jump or a rail. However, in 2014, I felt a deep desire to express myself through a different medium, so I traded my snowboard for brushes and moved to Oslo to study at Einar Granum School of Fine Arts. After two years in Art School, I found a small studio space I could rent for some paintings in exchange for a studio space. Was not allowed to live there, but I had no money so i stayed there all day and night painting, eating crackers and bananas to survive. Had small pop-up shows and sold custom painted t-shirts on the side. Grinding and having a vision of what I wanted to do.
● What or who are your biggest influences or sources of inspiration?
My inspiration is drawn from a wide array of sources. Everything from the skies to the playful world of cartoons, anatomy, everyday life, childish kids’ drawings, chaos, and music in all genres have all had a significant impact on my work. Artists like of course Basquiat, Picasso, Philip Guston and more have influenced my style, but so has the vibrancy of contemporary culture and the energy of daily experiences.
● How has your style evolved over time?
My style has evolved from more straightforward forms of expression into a complex blend of figurative and abstract elements. Over time, I’ve challenged myself to explore new mediums and techniques, continually pushing my own understanding of color, form, and composition. My art is constantly evolving.
In the beginning, my style was easier one-line figurative, with clear, recognizable shapes influenced by classical art. I focused on light, and shadow, and was particularly interested in exploring the psychological aspects of human existence.
As I developed, my style shifted towards a more expressive and experimental direction. The clear lines and figures began to dissolve into more abstract forms. More focused on composition, I became bolder with my use of color, delving into complex emotional themes like identity and inner chaos.
Today, my work has become more abstract, where figurative elements almost disappear into a sea of colors, lines, and textures. My art is charged with chaotic energy, challenging the viewer’s perception of reality and identity. I use intense, contrasting colors and distorted forms to create a sense of discomfort and curiosity, inviting deeper reflection. Still growing and always working.
2. Artistic Process:
● Could you walk us through your typical creative process from idea to finished piece?
My creative process is very organic. I never have a plan. I let the piece evolve naturally. Large movements, I work with layers and layers, sometimes keeping elements, other times removing them until the piece feels right. Over and over again.
● Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into a creative mindset?
Just pick up the brush and do something with it. Music is essential to my process to get into the zone. What mood I am the day I wake up, the energy from the music fuels my creativity. Other than that, I try to clear my mind and just let the creativity flow naturally. Spill some paint, squeeze your eyes and look.
● How do you decide when a piece is finished?
Deciding when a piece is finished is always a challenge. It’s about trusting my instincts when the piece feels like it’s saying what I want it to say, when the energy and balance feel right, that’s when I know it’s done. I usually take photo of the work with my phone to get a perspective and zooming in and out, drawing on the phone to see what can fits or change color. Sometimes it’s just a gut feeling.
3. Themes and Concepts:
● What themes or concepts do you explore in your work? Why are these important to you?
’m drawn to the raw, unfiltered aspects of life—love, anger, loneliness, and empathy. These are universal experiences that connect us all. Color and composition are very important to me.
● Are there any recurring motifs or symbols in your art? What do they represent?
I never paint after a sketch. I go straight on the big white canvas. I often use abstract figures, animals, and elements from everyday life as recurring motifs. These symbols represent different aspects of human nature and emotions. For example, animals might symbolize instinctual behavior or hidden emotions, while abstract figures often represent the complexities of identity.
4. Technique and Medium:
● What techniques and mediums do you prefer to work with? Why?
I love paint. I used to work with acrylics, but I always wanted to paint with oil, but it's a mess, never dries. But after I tried it like 2 years ago, I can't go back to just working with acrylics. I use what I have around everything that can set color and change something. Oil because you can see all the brush strokes and they will stay there, not blend like the acrylic. More alive
● Have you experimented with different mediums or styles? If so, what was that experience like?
Absolutely. I’ve experimented with everything from traditional painting to freestyle tattoos, sculpture, clothing design. Each medium offers a new way to express myself and challenges me to think differently. Experimenting with different styles and techniques keeps my work fresh and exciting. Evolving every day.
5. Challenges and Achievements:
● What have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an artist?
The white canvas can be a big challenge. Teachers tell you aint shit, «You will never become anything»
● Can you share a moment from your career that you consider a milestone or significant achievement?
A significant milestone was my first big solo exhibition, in a official gallery “Wildlife,” at Fineart, Oslo in 2019. Having over 60 of my works displayed together and selling out in 2 days was an incredible experience. It was a moment where I felt all the hard work and risks, I’d taken were paying off. And 2022, Grieghallen Bergen, when my friend Post Malone was in town to play a show and texted me «we are coming to the gallery in ten minutes, see you soon» and we had to close the gallery for the public and had a private tour of the show, and he ended up buying 10 works. That was fun.
6. Exhibitions and Audience:
● How do you feel about exhibiting your work in galleries like RARARES? What do you hope viewers take away from your art?
Exhibiting in RARARES is an amazing opportunity to reach new audiences and share my vision. I hope viewers feel the energy and emotion in my work and that it resonates with them on a personal level. I want my art to provoke thought and evoke feelings that stay with them for a long time.
● How important is audience reaction and feedback to you as an artist?
Audience reaction is important, but it doesn’t drive my work. I create for myself first and foremost. That said, it’s always rewarding to hear how my art has impacted someone or made them see something in a new way. Everybody looks at it differently. I like to see people smile, stare and think.
7. Current and Future Projects:
● What projects are you currently working on? Any upcoming exhibitions or collaborations?
I just had my first solo exhibition outside of Norway, Florence Italy in June. Now working on the show at RARARES opening 30th October May 2025 big show in my hometown Hamar. I also have collaboration with designer chairs in the works.
● Where do you see your art practice taking you in the next few years?
I see my art expanding into new territories—more international exhibitions, collaborations. I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do and where my art can go. Art is important
8. Personal Insights:
● What emotions or messages do you aim to convey through your art?
I aim to reach a wide range of emotions—from joy and love to anger and loneliness. My art is a reflection of the human experience. How I look at things in a complex way. Light but dark, dark but light.
9. Advice for Aspiring Artists:
● What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the art world?
Stay true to your vision. Try and fail, don’t get caught up in trends or what you think will sell. Art is about expressing yourself and finding your own voice. Work hard, stay curious, and always keep pushing.
● How do you navigate the balance between artistic expression and commercial success?
It’s a constant balancing act. I prioritize creating what feels authentic to me, but I’m also aware of the business side. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your art remains true to you, yet still resonates with others.
10. Impact and Legacy:
● Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave through your art?
If my work inspires others to create fearlessly, that’s the legacy I want to leave behind.
● How do you measure the success of your artistic career?
Success for me is about more than just sales or recognition. It’s about growth both as an artist and as a person. If I’m constantly evolving and staying true to my creative vision, then I consider that a success.
11. Other - What’s your opinion?
● What is your view on Digital Art? VR and AI involvement in Art? - AI generated art its true art or more of an entertainment for the audience?
Digital art, VR, and AI are fascinating tools that can push the boundaries of creativity. However, I believe true art comes from human emotion and experience. AI can create impressive works, but it lacks the personal touch that comes from the artist’s hand and heart, no smell of paint, brush strokes or feeling from it. It’s more of an entertainment tool that complements traditional art rather than replacing it.
● Should politics and art be decoupled or not?
Art is a powerful medium for expressing ideas and challenging societal norms. Decoupling them would strip art of one of its most potent roles to provoke thought and inspire change.
● If you could send only one artwork of yours to outer space, for example to Mars, what would that work be? And why?
A huge statue made out of moon rocks. I would send a piece that encapsulates the human experience—a mix of abstract and figurative elements that tells a story of emotion, struggle, and hope. Art is a universal language.
● What can you suggest to art collectors about approaching their purchases - how to choose art works with both artistic value and with personal aesthetic value?
I’d advise collectors to trust their inner instincts and buy what resonates with them on a personal level. Look for pieces that not only appeal aesthetically but also tell a story or evoke emotion. Art should be something that you connect with deeply, not just a decorative item. Works you can look at forever and find new things, laugh or cry to. “You don't have to know art to love the art.”
● How many art works do you need to complete prior to being classified as an artist?
There’s no set number of works that define you as an artist. It’s about the journey and the commitment to your craft. You’re an artist the moment you start creating with intent and passion. Push it!
Thank you,
Masarati
My inspiration is drawn from a wide array of sources. Everything from the skies to the playful world of cartoons, anatomy, everyday life, childish kids’ drawings, chaos, and music in all genres have all had a significant impact on my work. Artists like of course Basquiat, Picasso, Philip Guston and more have influenced my style, but so has the vibrancy of contemporary culture and the energy of daily experiences.
● How has your style evolved over time?
My style has evolved from more straightforward forms of expression into a complex blend of figurative and abstract elements. Over time, I’ve challenged myself to explore new mediums and techniques, continually pushing my own understanding of color, form, and composition. My art is constantly evolving.
In the beginning, my style was easier one-line figurative, with clear, recognizable shapes influenced by classical art. I focused on light, and shadow, and was particularly interested in exploring the psychological aspects of human existence.
As I developed, my style shifted towards a more expressive and experimental direction. The clear lines and figures began to dissolve into more abstract forms. More focused on composition, I became bolder with my use of color, delving into complex emotional themes like identity and inner chaos.
Today, my work has become more abstract, where figurative elements almost disappear into a sea of colors, lines, and textures. My art is charged with chaotic energy, challenging the viewer’s perception of reality and identity. I use intense, contrasting colors and distorted forms to create a sense of discomfort and curiosity, inviting deeper reflection. Still growing and always working.
2. Artistic Process:
● Could you walk us through your typical creative process from idea to finished piece?
My creative process is very organic. I never have a plan. I let the piece evolve naturally. Large movements, I work with layers and layers, sometimes keeping elements, other times removing them until the piece feels right. Over and over again.
● Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into a creative mindset?
Just pick up the brush and do something with it. Music is essential to my process to get into the zone. What mood I am the day I wake up, the energy from the music fuels my creativity. Other than that, I try to clear my mind and just let the creativity flow naturally. Spill some paint, squeeze your eyes and look.
● How do you decide when a piece is finished?
Deciding when a piece is finished is always a challenge. It’s about trusting my instincts when the piece feels like it’s saying what I want it to say, when the energy and balance feel right, that’s when I know it’s done. I usually take photo of the work with my phone to get a perspective and zooming in and out, drawing on the phone to see what can fits or change color. Sometimes it’s just a gut feeling.
3. Themes and Concepts:
● What themes or concepts do you explore in your work? Why are these important to you?
’m drawn to the raw, unfiltered aspects of life—love, anger, loneliness, and empathy. These are universal experiences that connect us all. Color and composition are very important to me.
● Are there any recurring motifs or symbols in your art? What do they represent?
I never paint after a sketch. I go straight on the big white canvas. I often use abstract figures, animals, and elements from everyday life as recurring motifs. These symbols represent different aspects of human nature and emotions. For example, animals might symbolize instinctual behavior or hidden emotions, while abstract figures often represent the complexities of identity.
4. Technique and Medium:
● What techniques and mediums do you prefer to work with? Why?
I love paint. I used to work with acrylics, but I always wanted to paint with oil, but it's a mess, never dries. But after I tried it like 2 years ago, I can't go back to just working with acrylics. I use what I have around everything that can set color and change something. Oil because you can see all the brush strokes and they will stay there, not blend like the acrylic. More alive
● Have you experimented with different mediums or styles? If so, what was that experience like?
Absolutely. I’ve experimented with everything from traditional painting to freestyle tattoos, sculpture, clothing design. Each medium offers a new way to express myself and challenges me to think differently. Experimenting with different styles and techniques keeps my work fresh and exciting. Evolving every day.
5. Challenges and Achievements:
● What have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an artist?
The white canvas can be a big challenge. Teachers tell you aint shit, «You will never become anything»
● Can you share a moment from your career that you consider a milestone or significant achievement?
A significant milestone was my first big solo exhibition, in a official gallery “Wildlife,” at Fineart, Oslo in 2019. Having over 60 of my works displayed together and selling out in 2 days was an incredible experience. It was a moment where I felt all the hard work and risks, I’d taken were paying off. And 2022, Grieghallen Bergen, when my friend Post Malone was in town to play a show and texted me «we are coming to the gallery in ten minutes, see you soon» and we had to close the gallery for the public and had a private tour of the show, and he ended up buying 10 works. That was fun.
6. Exhibitions and Audience:
● How do you feel about exhibiting your work in galleries like RARARES? What do you hope viewers take away from your art?
Exhibiting in RARARES is an amazing opportunity to reach new audiences and share my vision. I hope viewers feel the energy and emotion in my work and that it resonates with them on a personal level. I want my art to provoke thought and evoke feelings that stay with them for a long time.
● How important is audience reaction and feedback to you as an artist?
Audience reaction is important, but it doesn’t drive my work. I create for myself first and foremost. That said, it’s always rewarding to hear how my art has impacted someone or made them see something in a new way. Everybody looks at it differently. I like to see people smile, stare and think.
7. Current and Future Projects:
● What projects are you currently working on? Any upcoming exhibitions or collaborations?
I just had my first solo exhibition outside of Norway, Florence Italy in June. Now working on the show at RARARES opening 30th October May 2025 big show in my hometown Hamar. I also have collaboration with designer chairs in the works.
● Where do you see your art practice taking you in the next few years?
I see my art expanding into new territories—more international exhibitions, collaborations. I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do and where my art can go. Art is important
8. Personal Insights:
● What emotions or messages do you aim to convey through your art?
I aim to reach a wide range of emotions—from joy and love to anger and loneliness. My art is a reflection of the human experience. How I look at things in a complex way. Light but dark, dark but light.
9. Advice for Aspiring Artists:
● What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the art world?
Stay true to your vision. Try and fail, don’t get caught up in trends or what you think will sell. Art is about expressing yourself and finding your own voice. Work hard, stay curious, and always keep pushing.
● How do you navigate the balance between artistic expression and commercial success?
It’s a constant balancing act. I prioritize creating what feels authentic to me, but I’m also aware of the business side. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your art remains true to you, yet still resonates with others.
10. Impact and Legacy:
● Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave through your art?
If my work inspires others to create fearlessly, that’s the legacy I want to leave behind.
● How do you measure the success of your artistic career?
Success for me is about more than just sales or recognition. It’s about growth both as an artist and as a person. If I’m constantly evolving and staying true to my creative vision, then I consider that a success.
11. Other - What’s your opinion?
● What is your view on Digital Art? VR and AI involvement in Art? - AI generated art its true art or more of an entertainment for the audience?
Digital art, VR, and AI are fascinating tools that can push the boundaries of creativity. However, I believe true art comes from human emotion and experience. AI can create impressive works, but it lacks the personal touch that comes from the artist’s hand and heart, no smell of paint, brush strokes or feeling from it. It’s more of an entertainment tool that complements traditional art rather than replacing it.
● Should politics and art be decoupled or not?
Art is a powerful medium for expressing ideas and challenging societal norms. Decoupling them would strip art of one of its most potent roles to provoke thought and inspire change.
● If you could send only one artwork of yours to outer space, for example to Mars, what would that work be? And why?
A huge statue made out of moon rocks. I would send a piece that encapsulates the human experience—a mix of abstract and figurative elements that tells a story of emotion, struggle, and hope. Art is a universal language.
● What can you suggest to art collectors about approaching their purchases - how to choose art works with both artistic value and with personal aesthetic value?
I’d advise collectors to trust their inner instincts and buy what resonates with them on a personal level. Look for pieces that not only appeal aesthetically but also tell a story or evoke emotion. Art should be something that you connect with deeply, not just a decorative item. Works you can look at forever and find new things, laugh or cry to. “You don't have to know art to love the art.”
● How many art works do you need to complete prior to being classified as an artist?
There’s no set number of works that define you as an artist. It’s about the journey and the commitment to your craft. You’re an artist the moment you start creating with intent and passion. Push it!
Thank you,
Masarati