Ivan Karim

1978. Spanish, born in El Cairo. Based in Marbella.

Karim’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in his personal narrative, often drawing inspiration from his inner world “mixed with anything that strikes him profoundly from reality”.

Ivan Karim stands as a compelling figure in contemporary art, celebrated for his approach that embraces the realms of painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, music and industrial design.

His self-taught background has fostered a distinctive style characterised by experimentation and fearlessness. Each artwork represents Karim’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, drawing from his inner world and the vibrancy of life around him.

With each piece, he invites viewers to explore the interplay of colour, texture, form and meaning, encouraging them to see beyond the surface.

Statement

My use of mixed media arises from my multipotential traits. I have always been fascinated by striking images, colours, shapes, and textures, which initially drew me to drawing and graphic design.

It was my teacher, the artist Santiago Sierra, who identified this peculiarity in me at the age of 16 and encouraged me to experiment and mix all the techniques within my reach.

I later explored photography and eventually transitioned to painting, which I turned on its head. I have experimented with various mediums, techniques, and materials. For a time, I aimed to reinvent the canvas by creating resin canvases.

However, at this stage in my life, my tactile side has taken some precedence over the visual. I am now embarking on an exciting journey into sculpture, particularly using ceramics and non-toxic resins. This path has led me to Pën, which was born in 2015 from my subconscious.