Why Art
Painting, sculpting or building something has been a human need for centuries. What prompted a man from the Stone Age to etch something into a cave wall? Everyday life back then was of a different caliber than it is today. Yet, still, our ancestors had this innate desire to create something.
Philosophy
Art only comes to life through the interaction between the object and the observer. Interpreting art in terms of causality is intriguing. Under the assumption of free will, the act of viewing a work of art influences the causal chain of events.
Taking the chaos theory into account, where the flapping of a butterfly's wings has far-reaching consequences, art can make a difference.
Art and Work
Fortunately, my day job is defined by an array of creative tasks that keep me on my toes. I am constantly required to develop something new and to take on a different perspective.
Solving technical challenges and interacting with my clients is an ongoing source of inspiration for me.
At the same time, my creative work enables me to transform my ideas into reality or capture a tiny fraction of what I have seen through my camera's viewfinder.
Art as Work
My great idol Thomas Edison once said, "Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration."
The willingness to classify one's failures as meaningful intermediate steps is indispensable in this case. But, it isn't always as easy as it may seem.
Achievements
History abounds with brilliant yet depressive artists. No worries, absinthe is not that strong these days, which is why both of my ears are still in place. Even a few ice-cold Daiquiri cannot harm me, as I don't possess a shotgun.
I would consider it a personal success if what I create had a positive effect. That's why the Earth-Can project is so close to my heart. It would be a win-win situation if my work at least inspires the viewer to take a moment to pause and reflect.
What I Would Like to Accomplish
My works are designed to create an interaction with the viewer. They are meant to trigger a reaction. Hopefully, a positive one.
It is kind of like when telling a joke. You cannot make everyone laugh. But, that does not keep me from trying and I am happy about every smile I can elicit.
Ultimately, it translates to one more person who isn't reduced to tears!
What Art Means to Me
Please do not imagine poor Robinson Crusoe now, stranded all alone on an island after being shipwrecked and biding his time carving figurines. After all, he still had his “Man Friday” there at his beck and call.
Rolf Berte lives and works in Hamburg, Germany. After receiving his engineering degree, he worked at various renowned research institutes. Through his role as managing director at the Institute for Exploratory Data Analysis (I.E.D), he can incorporate his technical knowledge into interactive pieces. His installations are created at his workshop near the Danish border and feature microcontrollers, lights, and touch displays. During his worldwide adventure tours, Rolf documents wildlife, landscapes, and urban life with his photography. His other interests include science, philosophy, and sailing.