A more poetic title for this project could be “Roses of Youth,” reflecting the inspiration behind it. Steven Große, Marvin Schenke, and Michelle Bohndiek, students from the Anne-Marie Tausch School for Early Childhood Education in Wolfsburg, Germany, chose to explore and present my work in an art project back in 2017.
Their decision to feature me was a profound honor, as we had never met personally, nor did I have any prior artistic connection to Wolfsburg. The experience was both unexpected and deeply moving.
Their Message to Me:
*”We were asked to introduce an artist who inspires us. When we discovered your work online, the ‘My Roses for Cy’ series immediately resonated with us. We would love to hear your interpretation of the series—how the name came about, and what inspires you to create such pieces. Do you have a favorite work of your own? If so, which one and why?
We aim to develop a truly special presentation and would greatly appreciate your support—perhaps through an interview via video chat or written responses.
Warm regards, Steven, Marvin, and Michelle”*
About “My Roses for Cy”
This series pays homage to Cy Twombly, my artistic mentor—my “art father.” His spontaneous and uninhibited approach to painting captivated me, as it was free from artificiality and devoid of premeditation.
The five roses in “5 Roses for Cy” represent our five senses, intertwining and corresponding with one another.
When asked what inspires me to create, my answer is simple: life itself. The way we perceive our surroundings, both directly and indirectly, the continuous search for balance—to observe and feel deeply is integral to my process. As a highly sensitive person, I naturally became an observer and a nonconformist.
My Favorite Work
One of my most treasured pieces is “Mystery of Cy“, which I painted in 2008 following my visit to the Prado Museum in Madrid, where I first encountered Twombly’s work.
This piece holds great significance. Shortly before his passing, Prof. Dr. Rudolf Leopold (Leopold Museum, Vienna) selected it as part of a competition, leading to its exhibition at the museum. This pivotal moment marked a milestone in my artistic journey and helped pave the way for my work in the USA.
Further Reflection
When asked which artistic period I associate my works with, I describe them as contemporary, yet difficult to categorize—much like myself.
Among my creations, the ones closest to my heart are those donated to various charitable auctions supporting hospices, cancer foundations, refugee aid, and children’s initiatives. Knowing they were auctioned for a meaningful cause and now bring joy to others is deeply fulfilling.
Many of my paintings are in Germany, though I have lost track of their exact locations. Over time, I realized that I wanted my creations to find homes scattered across the world—as if my spirit could travel and leave its imprint on the earth.
The Project’s Results
Steven, Marvin, and Michelle’s presentation began with an introduction to my biography, my well-known works, and key artistic influences.
To make their presentation interactive, they engaged their classmates in a hands-on painting experience. Using my piece “Rose 4 Cy” as a template, they designed three creative stations featuring innovative painting techniques:
- Brushes attached to cordless drills for spontaneous brushstroke movements
- Brushes sewn onto headbands for a dynamic and immersive painting approach
- Corks for stamping to explore texture and layering
Each student crafted a small, unique artwork, contributing to a vibrant, collective interpretation of my style.
To accompany their presentation, they sent me a video capturing moments from this extraordinary project. And what a video it is! A brilliant, multimedia execution that honors both the subject and spirit of Cy Twombly.
A heartfelt thank you to Marvin Schenke, Michelle Bohndiek and Steven Große for this exceptional tribute!
MOO - Monika Mori 