Hi my name is Mark Faasen. I am a mechanical engineering student from Germany. In the rational and theoretical world of engineering, I feel the need to create a balance by making art. So I draw and create digital pictures as part of my daily routine. Drawing was always a big thing for me but I got into 3D software more than a decade ago after watching some video online. I liked the idea of being able to create things and make them seem alive. So I started my first projects, then failed, started again and got better. Over the years I refined my skills and soon I fell in love with 3D-Software and the endless possibilities. Nowadays the creative process is a key piece in my mental clarity and wellbeing and I am very grateful for all the wonderful people I met and connected with.
1 - Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to follow your path?
When I was learning how to reconnect with oneself after being trimmed in school/university for many years i started to listen to my body and mind more carefully. I soon noticed that whenever I did something creatively stimulating, I entered a flow state and was able to keep a sharp focus for many hours. For me it felt like a few minutes. This is a key indicator for having found a sense of purpose.
2 - Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
Well it differs a lot from piece to piece. Somedays I just start and see wherever the journey takes me. The final picture can be anything from a mountain range to some abstract colors and shapes. On other days I have a feeling that I want to invoke in the viewer or just express myself. I focus a lot on composition and contrast, but most importantly to me are colors. I can spend hours just tweaking and materials and lighting. I also like to work with random patterns and just make something that's interesting to look at, with no clear meaning.
On some special days I will have a vivid dream of some scenery in the early hours of the morning. Sometimes I even dream of how I would use the software to create that scenery, sounds crazy I know! As soon as I get up I will take my breakfast to the desk and start working immediately!
3 - How do you know when a piece of work is accomplished? What’s your number 1 habit?
That might be the hardest part of the process for me. I have a strong inner perfectionist which hinders me to just let go and finish a project. I always think of ways I could have improved a piece… I don't have a habit to combat this but I do remind me of a useful principle: The beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. For me this work can have many imperfections and I have looked at it for many hours while working on it so i don't see it the same as others anymore. But for someone else the picture can tingle their unique taste in the sweet spot!
4 - What drives and inspires you?
The community! Being in touch with creative people is just pure awesomeness. It breeds the best ideas and forges strong friendships. When I see the astonishing work of other fellow Artists I just get that strong feeling of humbleness for their incredible skill. There are some true masters of their craft out there.
5 - What are you thankful for?
For the continuous love and energy from the people around me. I would not be where i am today if it wasn't for my friends and family. Seeing that they are all well and working on their passion projects is just wonderful. Everytime i look at the stars I can't stop thinking about this miracle of life.
6 - Do you have a favourite book?
Essentialism by Greg McKeown. It is pure golden knowledge applicable to every aspect of life.
7 - What does your daily routine look like?
Get up, stretch my body and then I need a big ol bowl of muesli. Without that i can't start the day. While eating I will journal on today's plans and yesterday's events. A quick cold shower followed by a cup of coffee and I am ready for whatever the day throws at me. Most of the days in summer I will grab my mp3 player and go longboarding in the evening.
8 - What advice would you give to your younger self following your steps?
Carefully listen to your heart on what it is that you truly want to do in life. Don't just live into the day, be the master of your own destiny.
9 - Why do you do what you do? Where can people find you? What’s your vision about?
I want to keep learning and exploring the endless possibilities to be creative and inspire others. This creativity is a gift from nature and only we humans have mastered. I want to use my drive to create many things and inspire others. I share my work on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mark.faasen/) and Artstation (https://www.artstation.com/astromunculus). Feel free to say hi and tell me about your passion!
10-How do you get in contact with the ROU / What does this movement mean to you?
I am very lucky that I got to meet Hannes aka HKMK in person. We met at university and there started our friendship. Soon we would study together and pull all nighters to get assignments done. Seeing him passionately working on his goals and ROU truly inspired me. He sparked a flame and continues to teach valuable knowledge. Seeing what effect ROU has on people and how it brings them together and amplifies their strength is true magic.
Ending: What should people be ready for in 2020 (upcoming projects)
Lots and lots more pretty pictures and awesome collaboration projects to look out for! Also I will participate at an exhibition in St. Petersbourg, which is a big milestone for me.