Exclusive interview with Karolina Sávolt – 13 y.o. Hungarian painter prodigy
Step into the vibrant world of Karolina Sávolt, Hungary’s 13-year-old artistic sensation! To celebrate the opening of her latest exhibition, ‘Earthly Wonders’ by Karolina Sávolt, which premiered on 3rd April at Bodo Gallery, Budapest, we thought of inviting the young painter prodigy to an exclusive interview. From her early days of painting during the pandemic to international exhibitions in Budapest, Dubai and Barcelona, Karolina Sávolt’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Join us to uncover the story behind Karolina Sávolt’s artistic vision, her dreams of supporting art education for disadvantaged children and her aspirations to showcase her works on the global stage.
DNH: What inspired you to start painting at such a young age, and how did you discover the unique style of magical realism?
Karolina Sávolt: I began painting during the pandemic at the age of nine, where I discovered the beauty of painting, although I had been drawing a lot before. I enjoy painting realistically and portraying motifs in such a way that I tend to exaggerate them, which adds a touch of magic to my paintings.
Who are your favourite painters and artistic styles?
I wouldn’t single out one artist, but among my favourite painters are those from the 15th, 11th and 12th centuries as well as several contemporary painters. I’m drawn to various artistic styles such as romanticism, renaissance, realism and abstraction, often incorporating geometric shapes.
Could you tell us about Karolina Sávolt’s journey as a self-taught artist, learning from online sources and mastering the basics of painting?
I haven’t had a teacher or mentor beside me; everything I’ve learned and mastered has been through online resources. Being born in 2010, they say I belong to the alpha generation, and learning online is something my generation is familiar with and adept at.
How do you balance your passion for painting with your studies and sports, such as tennis?
Painting will always be a part of my life, but I also prioritise my studies and sports. Therefore, I have a busy schedule both on weekdays and weekends.
Your paintings often feature elements related to nature and the environment. What message do you aim to convey through your artwork?
All my paintings carry messages. Since my first exhibition, I’ve realised the impact I can have on my surroundings, so I’ve amplified the importance of environmental, animal and nature conservation through my art. I also highlight the beauty of our environment and urge people to notice and appreciate it.
Could you share your creative process from ideation to execution, particularly focusing on your preference for oil painting?
In the first few months of learning the basics, I started with acrylics, but they dried too quickly for my liking since I often work on multiple paintings simultaneously. So I switched to oil painting, which allows me to work on a piece for several days without the paint drying. Planning is crucial; I sketch out my ideas on paper before transferring them onto canvas. Sometimes I make adjustments during the painting process, but maintaining proper proportions is always a priority.
What role does your family play in supporting your artistic endeavours, and how has their encouragement shaped your artistic journey?
My parents are incredibly supportive and help me realise my plans and goals. My sister acts as my manager, organising my exhibitions and sourcing necessary materials, while my twin brother assists with studies, also holding the title of “Good Student Good Athlete” in Hungary.
Source: facebook.com/savoltkarolina
You’ve exhibited your works internationally, from Budapest to Dubai and Barcelona. How does it feel to showcase your paintings on such a global stage at such a young age?
It’s a great joy and honour to receive invitations from abroad, allowing me to showcase my art in stunning locations every year.
Your art is described as incorporating elements of renaissance, baroque, abstract, and avant-garde styles. How do you blend these diverse influences into your own artistic voice?
I love these artistic movements, and each motif demands a different style of painting. For example, I prefer the renaissance style for depicting portraits or figures, while I approach subjects like hummingbirds or flowers differently. I also incorporate geometric representations to convey universal influences.
On your website, you mention your desire to support disadvantaged children in art education. Could you elaborate on your vision for this initiative and how you plan to implement it?
To achieve this goal, we’ve established the National Young Artists Foundation, aiming to provide every child with the opportunity to learn visual arts. I hope to begin this work with professionals as early as this year.
As exhibitions in the two major cultural capitals, New York and Paris, are soon to take place, what are your thoughts on showcasing your works in such renowned art venues, and what impact do you hope it will have on your artistic career?
For me, it’s the greatest honour to have my paintings displayed where some of the world’s greatest artists are present. Indeed, the greatest recognition for an artist is having as many people as possible see their work.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals as an artist, both in the short and long term?
I want my paintings to reach as many places as possible and to introduce my messages to a wider audience. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s crucial to bring visual arts closer to young people, acquainting them with the joy and beauty of creating art and bringing joy to as many people as possible through my paintings.
Join Karolina Sávolt on Instagram and Facebook for more stunning creations and behind-the-scenes insights. You can also show your support to the National Young Artists Foundation by purchasing captivating merch on her website, adorned with Karolina Sávolt’s unique designs.
Also, don’t miss the chance to experience Karolina Sávolt’s latest exhibition, ‘Earthly Wonders’, which welcomes art lovers from Monday to Saturday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., until the 26th of April. Visit Bodo Gallery at 24-26 Falk Miksa Street, Budapest, to immerse yourself in Karolina Sávolt’s mesmerising world of art.
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1 Comment
There seems to be a high number of amazing youth in this world. I can’t help but hope they all get the supports that they need and at the same time do not get taken advantage of by family or the wider public. We read and hear too often about young musicians etc in the entertainment industry being violated by penises, which are a tool of violence against women of all ages. And immediate family who increase their own lifestyle to hights which misuse and appropriate too much of the income from the talented child. I hope tht this young woman immediately has legal protection put in place to serve her best interests, while also ensuring tht siblings get equal attention from parents.