Art Blog

10 Questions with Ruhan Janse van Vuuren

Ruhan Janse van Vuuren mainly use of the figure as a vehicle and starting point from which the final works emerge. He is inspired by people that he knows rather than strangers - and these individuals are more often than not featured in his work. As such, the body of work becomes an intimate diary of time passing.

He is also moved by music. He finds a specific kindred connection in the brutal honesty of the protest music movements. He also delves into the abyss of absurdist comedies and the Kafkaesque undertones of daily living.

If not art, what would you do?

I probably would have done something that would afford me the opportunity to travel as much as possible, so a travel writer I suppose.

Where does your inspiration come from?

I try to read as much as possible, and there is always music playing.

What's your secret obsession?

Shoes. But I have stopped now.

Do you have a creative muse?

Most of my works feature members of my family, so I think my close family would be my collection of muses.

Which creative medium would you love to pursue but haven't yet?

I would like to explore photography.

Favorite time of the day?

I try to be a morning person, but I am not one. I always enjoy the dusk though.

What is your most important artist tool? Is there something you can't live without in your studio?

A radio.

Favourite or most inspirational place in South Africa?

My home.

What, in your opinion, is the hardest step in creating an artwork?

Starting it...

What's the best creative advice you've ever received?

Failure is a badge of honour, it means that you tried something new.

View Ruhan Janse van Vuuren's portfolio on Art.co.za and follow him on Instagram.