Reflecting a deep commitment to the craft of painting and a profound engagement with contemporary society, the works of Adrian Cojocaru (b. 1993, Romania) celebrate human experience in all its depth and diversity. Drawing inspiration from his extensive personal image archive, acquired by employing walking as part of his artistic practice, popular culture, art history references and the sense of displacement and longing that his dual upbringing in Eastern and Western Europe brought, the expansive canvases offer a glimpse into the repetitiveness of daily work and the hidden places that often elude casual observation.
You can follow Adrian on his Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/adriancojocaruu/
Q&A with Adrian Cojocaru
When did you discover your passion for art, and what does art mean to you?
Since I was a child. I remember my parents somehow got me a toy electronic organ, and I was fascinated by it. I really liked music, and I wanted to study at the Conservatory, but I was afraid of the entrance exam. The same fear held me back from applying to the Visual Arts faculty; I only gathered the courage to do so at the age of 26, after completing another degree. Art, to me, is a way of life. I believe that all the choices I’ve made so far, consciously or not, have been guided by an artist, the artist within me, who is finally free.
Describe yourself briefly: what do you like, what moves you, what angers you?
I enjoy buying new books and reading them. I like listening to the radio in the morning while having my coffee in the studio. I like playing tennis with friends. I am moved by decent people and their stories. Poorly cooked food angers me.
Describe your artistic vision: sources of inspiration, methods, messages you want to convey to the audience.
I’m not sure if I have a defined artistic vision. I draw inspiration from everything around me. I try to create different narratives, which I mold into new possibilities and realities. I take established painting techniques seriously and aim to learn from them and experiment to incorporate them into the current context.
Who has influenced you on your journey so far, and how?
I’ve taken something from everyone I’ve met. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Professor Mihai Tarași, who made me fall in love with painting. His openness to any form of art influenced me, and he helped me understand that art is about life.
Which of your works do you like the most, and what does it mean to you?
The work I like the most is always the next one.
What was the most joyful moment in your career so far?
I was overjoyed when someone I admire proposed collaborating on an artistic project. It’s one of the most beautiful and fulfilling things that has happened to me.
What do you expect from the Accelerator Brașov program?
I expect to make contacts and collaborate with specialists in the field. I want to learn how to do things in a professional manner. I hope to discover how to communicate better with the audience, and I eagerly await discussions with other artists.
Which other artist do you like and find inspiring, and why?
It’s hard for me to choose just one. I like how David Hockney has dedicated himself entirely to art. I’m inspired by the humor and ease with which Roman Signer works. Additionally, I’m fascinated by Rick Rubin’s philosophy regarding the creative process.
What are your future plans?
I want to participate in artistic residencies where I can engage in dialogue with other passionate people, and I believe these experiences can positively influence my artistic practice. I would like to be part of a community with which I can undertake projects for the benefit of the public. Furthermore, I want to exhibit all the projects I have planned.
You can find Adrian on his website as well: adriancojocaru.art
Work of the Artist
in Fabulating About a Gelato Machine Exhibition
