From his magnificent candle sculptures to his exploration of different art materials, Patrick Coard shared with MEGA Man his aspirations and the exciting endeavors that lie ahead on his creative path
The moment you step foot into the exquisite abode of Patrick Coard, a sense of warmth and admiration will instantly envelope your senses. The carefully curated collection of art pieces, thoughtfully arranged throughout the space, immediately captivates the eye. Patrick graciously reveals that the majority of these stunning works are his very own creations. In this exclusive interview, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the renowned artist as he shared with us the humble beginnings of his art, his remarkable achievements, his upcoming exciting endeavors, and his heartfelt decision to make the Philippines his home.
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Innate visionary
From an early age, Patrick has been blessed with a profound sense of creativity, a gift that has left a permanent imprint on his soul. The ability to craft something that resonates deeply and elicits a sense of joy has become an intrinsic part of his being. For this man, the conventional titles of “designer” or “artist” do not fully capture the essence of his creative spirit. Rather, he perceives himself as a passionate creator, one who derives immense joy from the act of bringing his visions to life through his hands.
As Patrick reflects on his past, a vivid childhood memory comes to the top of his mind. It transports him back to his school days where he discovered an intense appreciation for subjects that encompassed history, culture, and the arts. One cannot help but wonder if growing up in such a vibrant community of painters and artists had an impact on his artistic tendencies. But what remains undeniable is his dedication to any endeavor that provides an avenue for him to delve into the depths of his creativity.
Shining a light on his dream
A Danish tradition involving the lighting of candles has always fascinated Patrick. He eventually found himself propelled towards a humble desire: to create the most beautiful candle in the world. In his perspective, candles transcend their existence, taking on an ethereal quality that ignites a sense of wonder and enchantment. To him, these slender pillars of wax possess an innate ability to breathe life into any space they inhabit. When posed with the question of his most exquisite candle so far, Patrick found himself momentarily at a loss for words. He expressed his belief that his creations possess a universe of their own, emphasizing the inherent beauty that resides within each meticulously crafted candle.
Patrick’s profound philosophy
In a moment of introspection, the artist paused, delving into the depths of his being, as we asked about the essence of his creative philosophy. He then shared that, to him, art is similar to jazz music. The artist’s duty lies not only in defining the tune, but also in skillfully orchestrating an intricate rhythm that invites the audience to immerse themselves in a harmonious symphony of emotions and sensations.
“If it feels right, pursue it. The answers will come down the line.”
The artist also shared his belief in the importance of not confining oneself to rigid boundaries. According to him, true artistic expression should not be hindered by the pressure to reach a predetermined conclusion. Instead, he encourages fully immersing oneself in the creative process, allowing ideas to flow organically and unhindered.
Defeating creative impasses
Patrick opened up about the arduous path he traversed to reach the pinnacle of success he currently enjoys. In the initial phases of his artistic journey, much like any other creative soul, he encountered moments of challenge. These instances served as opportunities for him to demonstrate his worth not only to himself, but also to those around him. He found himself profoundly grateful for the innocence he possessed during his early years as it served as a catalyst for his relentless pursuit of knowledge and personal development within the realm of creativity. Armed with an indomitable spirit, Patrick confidently asserts that every fleeting period of doubt is nothing but a temporary hurdle along his quest towards triumph.
A different light on achievements
Patrick has a different idea of success than those who praise his many accolades. His time spent teaching at the Copenhagen School of Design is among his most treasured professional achievements. He served as a creative director, making sure that the school was a positive place for budding artists to learn and grow. The successful completion of a massive immersive exhibit in Copenhagen many years ago was also mentioned as a source of pride. He said it was challenging because apart from not being a known creative, he also had insufficient funds to pay for such an expensive installation. However, he added that the experience was ultimately rewarding.
Patrick’s debut exhibition, “The King’s Gambit,” exhibited at W/17 Gallery in the La Fuerza compound on May 16, 2023, was one of his major accomplishments here in the Philippines. For a period of two weeks, Patrick’s works—which he characterized as going beyond game pieces—were on display.
He also talked about the joy he experiences whenever he witnesses individuals delighting in his masterpieces showcased in public spaces. Patrick elaborated that this accomplishment holds significant weight because it signifies his artistic ability to entice individuals to pause and appreciate his art. Among the many remarkable achievements that have adorned his journey, there is one role that shines with unmatched significance: being a father. In a heartwarming display of paternal pride, Patrick graciously opened up his home to share with us the beautiful artwork created by his talented child. Each piece, lovingly showcased, serves as a testament to the deep sense of joy and fulfillment Patrick experiences as a devoted father.
Embracing life in the Philippines
When it came to deciding where to settle down, Patrick and his wife, Kifu Augousti, found themselves effortlessly drawn to the Philippines. In a heartfelt conversation, Patrick expressed his commitment to their daughter’s well-being, emphasizing the importance of instilling a myriad of values in her upbringing. Among the cherished ideals they hope their little one will embrace is the renowned bayanihan spirit, a deeply rooted sense of community and collective effort. Additionally, the significance of respecting elders, a timeless virtue that transcends generations, holds a special place in their parental aspirations.
The road to boundless creativity
In a burst of enthusiasm, Patrick shared a multitude of exciting prospects that lie ahead. With a burning desire to push the boundaries of his artistic prowess, he is about to embark on a journey of exploration and innovation. Armed with unparalleled determination, he is going to delve into the realm of sculpture and mural creation, venturing beyond the confines of traditional mediums. Sinamay, mesh, metal, and wood are set to become his chosen companions, each material lending its unique essence to his visionary creations. As his artistic horizons expand, so too does his ambition to captivate audiences both near and far. With his sculptures and murals poised to grace stages both local and international, he stands ready to make yet another major mark on the world of art.
Featured Image: MEETKESO
