BEYOND THE CANVAS: YTJE VEENSTRA ON THE FUSION OF ART, TECHNOLOGY, AND CREATIVITY
Ytje Veenstra is an internationally renowned VR artist, animator, and illustrator with a career that spans a diverse array of mediums and styles. Educated in illustration, Veenstra's work is deeply research-based, drawing on a rich tapestry of pop culture references and a keen observance of everyday life.
From her early days sketching with pencil through her explorations in papercuts and pigment-based markers, she has continually evolved. Now, she focuses on creating digital art and immersive environments in Virtual Reality. But Ytje's signature style shines consistently, no matter the medium.
We met Ytje at the Illustration Biennale to discuss her artistic philosophy, her approach to the creative process, and how she integrates new technologies into her art practice, continually pushing the boundaries of traditional and digital media.
Q: How do you personally define creativity?
Ytje Veenstra (YV): “Creativity is essentially about problem-solving. I firmly believe that if you want to be creative, you must keep an open mind: be open to new ideas and listen to others.”
“Creativity isn't about waiting; it's about engaging actively with your medium. It's about showing up and dealing with whatever the day brings—good or bad.”
Q: Many believe creativity is an innate gift. What’s your stance? Can it be taught or enhanced?
YV: “I think that creativity can be taught and nurtured. The myth of the solitary artist waiting for the Muse to strike is both outdated and damaging. Creativity isn't about waiting; it's about engaging actively with your medium. It's about showing up and dealing with whatever the day brings—good or bad. The more you engage in the process, the more you can enhance your creative abilities. This persistence, the continual effort, is what fosters creativity, not some fleeting moment of inspiration.”
Q: Sounds a little bit like that other myth: that one has to suffer for one’s art.
YV: “I’m intrigued by the raw struggle that comes with creativity and the making of art. And it can be a struggle. For me, the process is where the magic happens, so I wouldn’t call it suffering for my art. It’s just that I value the act of creation, often more than the finished piece.”
Q: Can you expand your emphasis on the creative process over the outcome?
YV: “It’s a philosophy that helps me stay focused and less fearful of making mistakes. Mistakes and happy accidents are inevitable, and instead of errors, I view them as invaluable learning opportunities. Each project teaches me something new about myself and my craft, regardless of how it ends.”
Q: But as an artist, you don’t sell your process; you sell an end product. There’s some tension there, or not?
YV: “For me, it’s all related to striving for uniqueness. Authenticity is paramount in my creations. I believe true art should stir strong emotions and provoke thought, not just please aesthetically. It should challenge viewers, pull back curtains to reveal hidden layers, and invite diverse interpretations. I aim for my work to be a dialogue, not a monologue.”
“Every tool or platform I use must serve the story I’m telling. The message should drive the medium choice, not vice versa.”
Q: Let’s shift gears: you transitioned from illustration to VR at one point, which must have been a significant shift. How did you first get involved with virtual reality?
YV: “My journey into VR started when Tamara Shogaolu contacted me from Ado Ato Pictures. She introduced me to a project that involved telling poignant, real-life stories through a new medium. This shift wasn't just about adopting a new technology and a new way of telling stories. VR allows for a more immersive experience, pulling the audience directly into the narrative world in a way traditional media can't.”
Q: With new technologies constantly emerging, how do digital platforms influence creativity?
YV: “Digital platforms are reshaping how we create and consume art. They break down geographical and economic barriers, allowing artists to reach global audiences and find previously inaccessible niches. However, every tool or platform I use must serve the story I’m telling. The message should drive the medium choice, not vice versa.”
Q: The blend of art and technology can be complex. How do you navigate these waters?
YV: “The key is to stay informed and adaptable. I experiment with new tools to understand their potential and limitations. It's crucial to remain a student of art and technology, continually learning and evolving. By doing so, I ensure that my use of technology enhances my artistic expression rather than overshadowing it.”
"Technology is just one part of the equation—your unique voice and vision make your work resonate.”
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to artists navigating the complexities of modern technologies and creative expression?
YV: “Stay curious and open-minded. Embrace new technologies but remain critical and discerning. Understand what each tool can offer your practice, and think critically about how it enhances or detracts from your artistic message. And remember, technology is just one part of the equation—your unique voice and vision make your work resonate.”
This interview was conducted at the Illustratie Biënnale Haarlem, the illustration and graphic art festival. We’re proud to call the Biennale one of our partners. For more articles and design challenges check back soon.
Comments