Psychedelics and their influence on art have been a source of fascination and inspiration for decades. From the surreal visions of Salvador Dali to the complex, spiritually inspired works of Alex Grey, these substances have helped artists to delve into the depths of the subconscious and make the invisible visible.
James Jarmusch, a director known for his unique visual style, captures the essence of psychedelic experience in art: “Surrealism was about the altering of senses, of perception, and psychedelic music and the use of psychedelic drugs, there’s a place where they intersect. We’re not on mushrooms or using psychedelics to create the music, but there’s something of it that’s important to us of where those two things connect in having an altered perception, rather than one that’s force-fed to you. Man Ray and the Dadaists were very interested in altering those perceptions."
This quote captures the essence of how psychedelics enable artists to see beyond conventional reality and offer an alternative lens to interpret the world around us.
Based on my observations and the stories I hear and read, it seems we are on the brink of a new psychedelic wave - not just within art, but also in fields like therapy and personal development. In places like California and Oregon, there's a movement towards decriminalization and even legalization of certain psychedelics, indicating a shift in societal attitudes towards these potent substances. Microdosing, for instance, the practice of taking small amounts of psychedelics to enhance creativity and productivity, is gaining traction among professionals in various fields.
After looking at the impact of psychedelics throughout history and their renewed appreciation in contemporary society, it's time to pull back the curtain a bit and share my own experiences. My "journeys" with psychedelics have been carefully chosen expeditions, not just for personal enlightenment but also as a tool to explore the depths of creativity. I describe my psychedelic experiences as 'journeys,' not in the literal sense, but as profound expeditions within, where I can explore the most remote corners of my mind and perception. Being an artist is a journey; not just a visual, but primarily an emotional and introspective one. Through my experiences with psychedelics, I've found that these substances are more than just an expansion of my perception. They act as a key to the deeper layers of the self and the sources of my creativity. In my ongoing quest for depth and meaning in my work, experimenting with psychedelics has opened up a new perspective. I approach these journeys with care, where set, setting, and intention are the keys to an enriching experience. These inner expeditions are not just for self-discovery; they are woven through the fibers of my creative vision and lay the groundwork for projects yet to come.
One of the things these experiences have helped me realize is how essential music is to me. Music has always lived within me. First as a drummer, later as a DJ, but when photography began to consume most of my time, music faded into the background. Reintroducing it into my work is not a simple addition, but a fusion of my artistic past with my current expression. This rediscovered element will not only play a supporting role in my visual narratives but also as an element in the new projects I am preparing.
These projects, still unnamed but full of potential, are like puzzle pieces now finding their place. I envision a future where my images not only capture the eye but also touch the heart through the amalgamation of image and sound. It is a journey that has yet to unfold, but with each experience, the path becomes clearer.
As an artist standing at the threshold of this psychedelic revival in both art and society, I see a fertile ground for experimentation and innovation. This is not just a personal evolution; it's a movement that I believe will influence the art world as a whole.
In my creative process, exploring the psychedelic depths forms an incredible source of inspiration. It's as if each session opens the floodgates of creativity and allows me to see everything with crystal clarity.
I understand that these paths are not for everyone, and I do not impose my experiences on anyone. What I share are purely my own experiences and discoveries. It's important for me to emphasize that psychedelics are a very personal choice and a path that requires responsibility and respect. For those who choose to walk this path, it's crucial to do so with careful consideration and ideally under the guidance of professionals.
It's my intention to translate these experiences into my work, to broaden both the visual and emotional horizons of my audience. It is my hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire others to also explore their own inner landscapes.