Alex De Bruycker’s practice is built on reflection, material experimentation, and a search for connection. From early explorations of the void to immersive works shaped by light, depth, and perception, each piece is an invitation to pause, contemplate, and engage with space in new ways. Influences from architecture, abstraction, and lived experience converge into a language that balances precision with openness, offering viewers both structure and freedom.

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Can you pinpoint a single moment in your life when you realized art was not just a passion but a purpose?

There was a pivotal moment at the end of 2018, about a year after I started painting, when I caught the attention of a collector in Italy on Instagram. At that time, I was creating my first pieces that explored the concept of the void. As I immersed myself in the creative process, I noticed that my work was resonating deeply with others. Viewers were engaging with my pieces, contemplating not just the artwork itself, but also their own relationship with space and depth.

In that moment, I felt a profound sense of purpose. I realized that my art could evoke emotional responses and spark meaningful conversations. It became clear to me that creating art was not merely a passion; it was a vital way for me to connect with others. From then on, I fully committed myself to this path, recognizing that my purpose lies in creating immersive experiences that invite reflection and engagement.

If you could communicate just one core message through your entire body of work, what would it be?

If I could communicate just one core message through my entire body of work, it would be the importance of connection—both to oneself and to the surrounding environment. I strive to create art that invites viewers to look beyond the surface, encouraging them to engage with the spaces they inhabit and to reflect on their own perceptions of depth and existence.

Through my exploration of the void, I want to convey that there is beauty and meaning in the spaces between things, in the moments of contemplation, and in the interactions we have with our surroundings. Ultimately, I hope to inspire a deeper awareness of how art can enrich our understanding of ourselves and the world around us, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

Can you take us through the evolution of an artwork, from that first spark of inspiration to the finished piece?

The evolution of an artwork for me typically begins with a spark of inspiration, which can come from various sources—an emotion, a moment in my surroundings, or even an idea that resonates with me. For example, I might be struck by the interplay of light and shadow in a space or the feeling of emptiness in a particular environment.

Once I have that initial idea, I start by sketching and brainstorming different compositions. This phase is exploratory; I allow myself to experiment with shapes, colors, and forms, often creating multiple drafts before settling on a direction. During this stage, I think about how to convey the concept of the void and create a sense of depth, all while considering how viewers will engage with the piece.

As I move into the actual creation phase, I begin working with my chosen medium—thin polyester mesh fabric. This material gives me unique control over translucency, allowing me to layer colors and create a sense of dimensionality that enhances the viewer's experience. I focus on how light interacts with the fabric, as this plays a crucial role in the final appearance of the piece.

Throughout the process, I frequently step back to assess the artwork and ensure it aligns with my vision. This reflective practice often leads to adjustments and refinements, as I remain open to the unexpected changes that can arise during creation. Sometimes, a piece evolves in ways I hadn’t anticipated, leading to new insights and directions.

Finally, when the piece feels complete, I take a moment to reflect on its journey—from that initial spark of inspiration to the finished artwork. I consider whether it successfully communicates the themes of depth and space that I aim to explore. Once I am satisfied, I prepare the piece for presentation, hoping it will invite viewers to engage in contemplation and reflection, making them feel as though they are part of the artwork itself.

How has your artistic style transformed over the years? Are there specific influences, experiments, or moments that marked a turning point?

One of the most significant turning points in my artistic journey was when I started experimenting with polyester mesh fabric instead of traditional canvas. This choice allowed me to manipulate translucency in ways that added a new dimension to my work. It opened up opportunities to explore the relationship between the artwork and its environment, transforming how viewers engage with my pieces. This shift marked a deeper commitment to creating immersive experiences that invite contemplation.

Influences from artists like Claudio Silvestrin, Mark Rothko, and Imi Knoebel have also played a crucial role in shaping my style. Silvestrin’s minimalist architecture inspired me to consider spatial awareness and purity in my compositions, leading me to create works that resemble frameless, window-like structures. Rothko’s color fields taught me the emotional power of color, prompting me to focus on how hues can evoke feelings and enhance the viewer's experience. Knoebel’s emphasis on simplicity and form encouraged me to strip away the unnecessary and focus on the essence of my work.

Additionally, feedback from my gallerist in Paris, Amélie du Chalard, has played a crucial role in my evolution. Their insights have encouraged me to push boundaries and explore new dimensions in my art. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected, allowing the creative process to guide me rather than adhering strictly to a predetermined style. Overall, my rather short artistic evolution has been a journey of exploration and experimentation, where each influence and experience has contributed to the development of my current style—one that seeks to transcend traditional boundaries and immerse viewers in a dynamic experience of depth and space.

How do you feel social media is shaping the way art is created, consumed, and valued today?

Social media has changed how art is created, shared, and valued today. It gives artists a chance to reach a global audience quickly, especially emerging artists who might not have traditional exhibition opportunities.

Platforms like Instagram allow for immediate feedback and interaction between artists and viewers, creating a sense of community around the artwork. This engagement can inspire artists to experiment and develop their styles based on audience reactions.

However, there are challenges. The pressure to maintain an online presence can distract artists from their creative process, pushing them to focus on trends rather than their authentic vision. Additionally, the fast pace of social media can lead to oversaturation, where the value of art is often judged by likes and shares instead of its true meaning.

In the end, social media is a double-edged sword. It opens up new ways to connect with people but also requires artists to find a balance between staying true to themselves and being marketable. As an artist, I strive to use these platforms to share my work while remaining authentic, knowing that real connections come from genuine expression.

How do you challenge yourself to continually grow as an artist while remaining true to your voice?

I challenge myself to grow as an artist by setting specific goals and exploring new techniques while staying true to my core voice. One way I do this is by experimenting with different materials and styles, which pushes me out of my comfort zone and opens up new possibilities for expression.

I also seek inspiration from diverse sources—whether it’s nature, architecture, fashion or other artists—allowing these influences to enrich my work without overshadowing my unique perspective. 

Importantly, I make time for reflection. I regularly assess my work to ensure it aligns with my vision and values. This self-evaluation helps me identify areas for improvement while maintaining the authenticity that is central to my art.

Ultimately, my journey as an artist is about balancing exploration with authenticity, ensuring that I evolve while remaining true to the voice that defines my work.

Do you think art that is created for commercial success loses integrity, or can it still hold meaning?

I believe that art created for commercial success can still hold meaning and integrity, but it often depends on the artist's intentions and the context in which the work is created. While commercial pressures can sometimes lead artists to prioritize market trends over their authentic vision, many artists successfully navigate this landscape by finding ways to blend their creative expression with commercial appeal.

Art can serve various purposes, including both personal expression and commercial viability. An artist can create work that resonates with a wider audience while still maintaining their unique voice and message. The key is to remain true to one’s values and to create work that feels meaningful, regardless of its commercial potential.

Ultimately, the integrity of art lies in the artist's intention and authenticity. If an artist is genuine in their approach, even commercially successful work can carry depth and significance, resonating with viewers on multiple levels.

List five moments or achievements in your young carreer that fill you with gratitude.

In my young career, several moments and achievements fill me with gratitude:

✧ First Exhibition: Having my first exhibition was a significant milestone. It was an incredible experience to see my work displayed in a gallery and to connect with viewers in person. The support I received from friends, family, and the community made it even more special.

 

✧ Recognition from a Collector: Gaining the attention of a collector early on in my career, particularly one from Italy, was a turning point for me. Their interest in my work validated my artistic voice and encouraged me to continue pursuing my passion.

 

✧ Positive Feedback: Receiving heartfelt feedback from viewers who connected with my work has been immensely rewarding. Hearing how my art resonated with others and prompted reflection or emotion reinforces the purpose behind my creations.

✧ Social Media Engagement: Building a supportive online community through platforms like Instagram has been a wonderful experience. Engaging with fellow artists and art lovers has opened doors to collaborations with my present gallery in Paris and new opportunities that I am truly grateful for.

 

✧ Artistic Growth: Each step of my artistic journey, from honing my skills to experimenting with new techniques, has been a fulfilling achievement. I am grateful for the growth I’ve experienced and the lessons learned along the way, as they have shaped my identity as an artist.

 

These moments remind me of the importance of community, support, and personal growth in my artistic journey, and they motivate me to keep pushing forward.

Name five questions you'd ask your favorite artist if given the chance.

If I had the opportunity to ask my favorite artist five questions, they would be:

✧ What inspired you to pursue art as a career, and how did you overcome any challenges along the way?
I would love to hear about their journey and the obstacles they faced, as well as how they found their passion for art.

 

✧ How do you stay true to your artistic voice while navigating trends and commercial pressures?
This question would help me understand how they maintain authenticity in their work amidst external influences.

 

✧ Can you describe a pivotal moment in your career that significantly impacted your artistic practice?
I’m curious about any experiences or turning points that shaped their approach to art and their creative process.

 

✧ What role does experimentation play in your work, and how do you approach new ideas or techniques?
I would like to learn about their creative process and how they foster innovation in their art.

 

✧ What advice would you give to emerging artists who are trying to find their own voice and establish themselves in the art world?
Hearing their insights could provide valuable guidance for my own artistic journey and help me navigate the challenges of the industry. These questions would not only deepen my understanding of their work but also inspire me in my own artistic practice.

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The journey of Alex De Bruycker affirms that art is not only passion but purpose — a practice dedicated to creating spaces of awareness and dialogue. Each work exists as both object and encounter, carrying intention while leaving room for interpretation. Rooted in authenticity yet open to evolution, the vision continues to grow toward connection, contemplation, and a deeper understanding of how art can shape the way we see ourselves and the world.