KOOF
So what captures many people immediately when looking at abstract art? Well, there are a myriad of things, but usually the primary reasons are the skilled use of colours, shapes, and lines in a unique way.
An Irish muralist who goes by the moniker KOOF employs a perfect combination and balance between the aforementioned elements and makes it look easy. Not easy in the sense that anyone can do what he does but that he has a clear vision, great execution and this is what connotes a sense of ease. With no shame in sounding cliché, when creating his murals he is clearly in his element.
KOOF has spent years honing his talent as an urban artist and demonstrates that he has the ability to produce consistently impressive art, whether it be on paper or the side of a building.
Where are you from?
Monaghan, Ireland.
How did the quarantine affect your creative process?
It allowed me to focus heavily on my own work and gave me the time to understand the style I want to pursue and explore. It also gave me the opportunity to learn new creative techniques.
An artist you’d invite to dinner.
Bridget Riley, Gil Scott-Heron & Charlie Chaplin.
I´m inspired by …
Artistic techniques from the past merging with current technologies and how they can be portrayed visually.
Favourite art gallery.
Internationally: M.O.M.A (NYC)
Locally: RHA (Dublin)
Have you always wanted to be an artist?
Yes, I’ve been drawing from a very early age, and have wanted to venture into the Art-World in some shape or form, whether it be as a hobby and/or a career.
Graphic Designer.
Three tips to keep creativity flowing.
- Researching is always beneficial, as it allows you to stop and think.
- Listen to your favourite music whilst you create.
- Collaborate in some way (big or small).
What do you listen to when creating?
NTS (Radio station) & The Blindboy Podcast.
Most inspiring place you’ve visited.
Rio de Janeiro.
Is there something creative you’d like to try?
I’d like to try my hand at making Augmented Reality Art in some way.
“This freedom was hugely beneficial and gave way to me producing more work in various styles I felt most comfortable in, my output of work also increased a lot due to this.´´
How has your art has evolved over the past 3 years?
I started by limiting myself to using a colour palette made up of 4-5 colours that I liked to work with. This allowed me to concentrate on shapes and forms a lot more. This freedom was hugely beneficial and gave way to me producing more work in various styles I felt most comfortable in, my output of work also increased a lot due to this.
I’m inspired by …
A desire to just keep exploring the journey the work takes you on. It’s thrilling!
Your favourite quote.
Movement makes movement.
Name an artist on Instagram that we need to follow?
Your favourite mural you’ve done so far, why?
My most recent one which I painted in Galway. It came after a 3-month lock-down, so the timing of it made it special. Plus, I got to paint alongside some of my favourite Irish-based artists.
