Q & A with Yasmine — Yasmine Yacoubi Art

Tell us a bit about yourself?

Raised by a German mother and a Moroccan father, I grew up in a multi-cultural environment. I was born in Dresden as part of East Germany. Eventually, we moved to Casablanca (Morocco) where I went to school. But today, I feel French as I attended the French schooling system as well as the University in Bordeaux where I studied Psychology. This childhood background brought me to live as an adult in different parts of the world : Australia, Chile and today South Africa. From this, I developed an endless curiosity and a sense of adventure.

Describe the most exciting part of your creative process?

The most exciting part would be the creation of colors and shapes combinations, the mark making process. I am enjoying the freedom of the strokes, experimenting the process as I go and looking for that moment where the dynamic brings all elements together. There is always a kind of discovery and surprise in the process that keeps me excited and eager to go for more. The motivations that stretch, push and expand the boundaries of the mind is certainly the most exciting part !

Why oil?

Oil has a subtlety in its texture and pigments that is very pleasing to me. There is a richness about it that allows for an extensive variety of expression. I also have in the past experimented watercolor and hope to go back to it one day.

What is it about nature that inspires you - again and again?

I suppose its fascinating wonder. It feels impossible to live in this part of the world without acknowledging its amazing nature; it is by itself a pinnacle of Art. Its impact on me is so strong that I chase nature to its hiding places with my paintbrush...and I am so thankful for this experience !

How has your work evolved? Is it a journey?

20 years ago, while I was in Australia, I discovered painting. I decided to go to various workshops and courses as well as experiment a lot by myself. I’ve always painted with other artists which I find is a fantastic stimulation and a great way of bonding with others. It is for sure one of the most extraordinary journeys of my life; I can’t imagine my life without art and painting.

What’s been the biggest challenge with keeping you going?

The discipline to find the time for painting. Because I also work as a psychologist, I am sharing my time and my energy. Another point would be that I don’t have a proper studio where I could spread myself and leave everything ready for the next moment.

What’s your advice for other creatives / artists?

Enjoy the process, let go and be free to express what you feel. We have so many rules and structures all around…the painting is your safe space, a kind of playground where you meet with yourself and eventually with the outside world!

What are your future plans?

It would be to pursue this journey of art. I would love to paint more, to experiment more and share this passion with others.

What trends are currently impacting the art world?

I would say a fusion of different techniques and ways of expression . Abstract, surrealism or modern expressionism as well as installations ….but I am happy to see that paintings are still very present in art despite a computerized world.

Which artists do you love and ‘follow’ – and why?

There are so many, but just to name a few:

I love Picasso. I think he is a genius and his evolution through his notorious work is phenomenal. His abilities are extraordinary and he is certainly a pillar of the 20th century in art.

I like Rothko, for the apparent simplicity and the massive sizes of his canvases which invite you to dive into his work. His way of painting is quite unique with an immediate and touching impact.

Cy Twombly for the freedom of his strokes.

Fabienne Verdier for her outstanding commitment to her art . Her journey as an artist is very interesting and the result on her canvases is reflective of this… Each canvas expresses an organic energy, the human breath, which is so enriching to connect with and becomes a powerful trait to her work.

What are your inspirations outside the art world? Favourite brands, designers, locations, books and other inspirations?

I love architecture as its impact on our lives is constant. Oscar Niemeyer, Piano Renzo and Frank Gehry are among my favourites.

I like travelling and discovering new places. I am fascinated by the diversity of societies and the culture that comes with it (the culinary dimension is an important element as I am quite a gourmet!) It’s difficult to name a specific place. I like Italy because to me, “it has it all”! But I also like Japan which I haven’t been to and would love to discover for it’s incredible refinement.

My favorite authors are Sandor Maraï, Stephan Zweig, Nancy Huston, Andre Brink.