The Complexity of Human Expression with Avgust Point
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Stepping into the world of Avgust Point feels like entering a vibrant gallery of raw emotion and bold expression. August's work captivates viewers through the lens of portraiture - each piece a testament to her mastery of oil pastels and her ever-evolving exploration of human connection.
What initially drew you to portraiture as your primary subject matter, and how has your style evolved over time?
I’ve always been fascinated by the depth and complexity of human expression. Portraiture feels like a window into someone’s essence, allowing me to explore emotions, stories, and relationships in a way that words often can’t. When I started, my focus was on realistic representation, but over time, my style has evolved to embrace more abstraction and a bolder use of colour. This shift allows me to convey not just the physical likeness but also the emotions and energy of the subject.
How do you approach capturing the essence or personality of your subject in a portrait? Are there specific techniques or rituals you rely on?
For me, the process begins with observation and connection. Whether I’m working from life or from a reference, I spend time absorbing subtle details - posture, gaze, and even the colours or mood that surround them. I don’t aim to replicate every detail; instead, I focus on what makes the subject unique.
What is your preferred medium (e.g., oil, charcoal, digital), and why do you find it the most effective or inspiring for your portrait work?
My preferred medium is oil pastel. I love how it allows me to work quickly, capturing emotions and energy with ease. The vibrant colours and rich textures of oil pastels bring a raw, dynamic quality to my portraits, making the creative process both intuitive and expressive.
Do you often work from life, photographs, or a combination of both? How does your process differ for each approach?
I primarily work from photographs. They allow me to revisit the reference as often as needed and experiment with interpretation.
What is the most challenging part of creating a portrait, and how do you push through those moments?
Honestly, I don’t feel that there are particularly challenging stages in the process itself. The hardest part is often finding the right reference - a photo that resonates with the mood or story I want to convey. Once I have that, the rest flows naturally.
Who are some artists, past or present, who have influenced your work or inspired you to pursue portraiture?
One of the artists who has profoundly influenced me is Park Ji-yeon. I discovered her comics many years ago, and I have admired her work ever since. The way she conveys complex emotions in her characters with just a few lines is truly remarkable. Her masterful use of composition and colour accents is incredibly inspiring. Her works are both elegant and bold, serving as a brilliant example of a distinctive personal style combined with exceptional skill.
Do other art forms – such as music, literature, or film – play a role in inspiring your work or setting the mood for your creative process? If so, can you share specific examples?
Music plays a significant role in my creative process. It’s one of the most effective ways for me to connect with my emotions and establish the atmosphere for my work. My music taste is quite varied, ranging from the raw energy of Bondage Fairies’ electronic punk to the soft, melancholic vocals of Lana Del Rey. Each song brings a unique mood that often finds its way into my art.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in portrait art, especially about finding their own voice and style?
I would recommend starting with an honest dialogue with yourself. Self-reflection is the foundation of developing your voice and your style. Ask yourself questions: What inspires you? What emotions or themes do you want to explore? What do you admire in others’ work? Focus on what sparks your curiosity and lean into that. Your technical skills will grow naturally with practice and experimentation, but self-exploration is what makes your work truly unique.
See more of Avgust Point:
Instagram: @avgust.point
Email: avgustpoint@gmail.com