Page 46 - Peter Anton: Skulptur

Peter Anton, Orange Bar, 2006, Mischtechnik, 56 x 20 x 8 cm

LT: A sentence I often read is that you love food. What is your personal rela-
tionship with food? How did it influence your career?

PA: I enjoy all kinds of food and treats. I was never a fussy eater. I eat a choc-
olate every night before bed. I grew up at a time when the entire family sat
down for dinner. It was not only about eating great food that was present-
ed beautifully, it was also about the discussion we had around the table.
Another interesting thing about food is that people give their own strong
opinions on which food they like and don’t like. They have opinions and dis-
agree on what is the correct way of preparing certain foods. People are very
passionate about food and the conversation can become heated at times
just like talking about politics. I observed the powerful hold food has on us
all and am always fascinated by this. An artist usually does their best work
when they focus on something they know about very well and have exper-
ience and knowledge about that subject matter. For me, this was food.

LT: How do you see the general relationship to food in society? How would
you position your works including a perspective on issues like health or food
industry?

PA: Everyone needs food to live. Unfortunately, the world is not equal.
There are countries with an abundance and others where people struggle
to find food to survive. The wealthier developed countries have the luxury
of choices to eat whatever they want and at whatever time they want and in
whatever quantities they desire. My work is a snapshot or a moment of this
fleeting experience with food.

LT: All of your works and shows include a moment of humor. How would you
describe that part of your work?

PA: I have always felt that humor is one of the most important elements we
have in order to cope and survive in this world. I believe so many in the art
world take themselves far too seriously. It is my intention to create a body of
work that remains honest to who I am and what I believe is important.

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