Originally from the Netherlands, Evi Barefoot is inspired by the slow paced and soulful lifestyle of the Mediterranean people, capturing the timelessness that weaves itself through contemporary Greece through her artwork. Often referring to ancient roots with hints toward the classical world of myth, and the nostalgic atmosphere of a vintage era, she creates images celebrating the universal art of simplicity in everyday life.
With a deep love and interest for folk art from various cultures and times, Evi is always steering toward a straightforward and naive approach when painting and making with a mix of acrylics, oil paint, and pastels. The visibility of her brush strokes, the flaws and imperfections, are tools to seek balance between the finished and unpolished, aiming for relatable yet layered works of art.
What inspires you to create your specific art style, and can you recall when this moment happened?
I have always felt attracted to folk art, outsider art, and the type of depiction that could be described as “naive.” It matches very well with my inner feeling of seeking simplicity in everything around me and the patterns of daily life. I have experimented with lots of different ways of painting before I felt home in the way I work at this moment. But to me, the process of creating is an ever changing thing, I don’t think I really believe in one definite style. As an artist you should always seek new discoveries and keep evolving.
When I paint it feels like a natural and intuitive process to implement the elements that I am inspired by - ancient roots, classical myths and contemporary Greece - into my work. I combine old and new, through objects, small depictive references, or even text. Overall it’s mostly an atmosphere or vibe that I am always looking for, that represents the feeling of the Mediterranean of now and then which touches me.
"To me, the process of creating is an ever changing thing, I don’t think I really believe in one definite style. As an artist you should always seek new discoveries and keep evolving."
The concept of celebrating the art of simplicity in everyday life is central to your work. How has the slow-paced and soulful lifestyle of the Mediterranean region influenced your artistic approach?
It is mostly in the characters I depict that I hope to evoke the sense of ease and comfort of the Mediterranean lifestyle and atmosphere. I try to capture that soulfulness and the typical art of living in the moment, in posture, facial expression, and of course through the soft colour palette that represents the vibrant light of Greece and the Mediterranean.
I think we as humans share lots of similar moments and feelings in the way we live. Even when we are all so different and unique, there are so many parallels that are weaving themselves through time and place and are connecting us universally. By depicting the simple act of living in the moment through daily activities, I hope to express that inner state of being that can be relatable by basically every person, now or then, here or there.
"Just like a human being, an artwork consists of many layers where each one counts and contributes to the whole story. I love how paint can be honest and bold, and if we dare to show the spaces in between, we can see all those layers shimmer through. For me that’s where the magic happens. If a work gets too polished or neat, I become disappointed and I have to start all over again. Haha."
How do you infuse modern concepts with a nostalgic vintage era atmosphere, and what do you hope viewers take away from this blend of old and new?
Nostalgia and honoring the old ways has always been a part of my life since I can remember. There’s so much to learn and love from past lives and generations. But on the other hand, traditions and habits can also turn rigid when you forget to approach them with an open mind. I believe it’s much more healthy and balanced whenever the old and the new find ways to blend together and celebrate their union. In this way, nostalgia can be sweet and fruitful, with openness and acceptance to the future but still shining in the now. I hope my work will evoke this crossover of times in a gentle and positive way.
Are there any parts of Greece that particularly inspire you to create?
Tiny seaside villages and green mountain villages are definitely among my favorites, but it’s mostly in the overall atmosphere and little details that spark a new work. I find inspiration everywhere around me, in people I meet, objects I see or even scents and sounds play a big part in making a piece.
Life here in a Mediterranean seaside city is definitely easy-going, free flowing and sunny. The beach vibe is always near, the weather bright, and people are generally in a good mood and have a relaxed attitude. That all definitely has an impact on the character of my paintings. My work became more light, literally and figuratively.
Browse Evi Barefoot's artwork on: www.evibarefoot.com
