ARTIST INTERVIEW: TIMO HELGERT

1. How would you describe your artistic style in three words?

Surrealism, dreamworlds, positivity.

My work is a fusion of imagination and reality, a bridge to places that only exist in our dreams. I believe that art should evoke a sense of wonder and exploration, while also offering a positive message. It is about creating a space where people can escape the weight of the world, even if just for a moment, and step into something magical, something bigger than themselves.

2. What has been your greatest source of inspiration recently?

Nature and the universal symbolism found in different cultures. There is something deeply grounding about nature—the way it is constant yet ever-changing, simple yet intricate. Similarly, symbols, those ancient languages without words, have a way of communicating across time, space, and borders. My goal is to create art that is universally understood, something that can resonate deeply with anyone, regardless of language or background. It is my way of uniting people through imagery that speaks to the human experience.

3. What was the defining moment that made you realize you wanted to be a professional artist?

Art has been my companion for as long as I can remember. At 16, when I stumbled upon 3D design, I was given the tools to create worlds that once only existed in my head. By 18, I was already working in VFX, crafting dreamlike sequences for films. But the defining moment came when I realized that I did not want to just create for others—I wanted to create for myself, to bring to life the worlds I saw in my mind, to build dreams others could step into. That is when I knew: art was not just a profession for me, it was my purpose.

4. If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would you choose and why?

Rather than working with other artists, I am more drawn to collaborating with individuals from completely different fields—engineers, AI experts, fashion designers, even perfumers. These people bring fresh perspectives that challenge the way I think and approach art. Imagine collaborating with a perfumer, combining visual art with scent, creating an immersive experience that engages not just the eyes but the senses. These unique cross-disciplinary collaborations push boundaries, allowing us to create something the world has never seen before.

5. Is there a specific message or emotion you hope to convey through your works?

Above all, I want to convey hope. We live in a world where challenges can feel overwhelming, and sometimes, all we need is a reminder that things will get better. Through my art, I aim to uplift, to inject a sense of positivity into people’s lives, even in the smallest way. Art has this incredible ability to change how we feel, how we perceive the world. If my work can make someone pause, smile, or feel a little lighter, then I have done my job.

6. What is the artistic project you are most proud of so far?

It is difficult to choose one, as each project has a special place in my heart, but “Return of Nature” stands out. This project took on a life of its own, gaining visibility across the world. It was featured in places like Tokyo’s Shibuya, Shanghai Airport, and London, spreading its message of nature reclaiming space in our industrial world. Seeing something I created resonate with people across different cultures and locations—it was a surreal experience, and it reminded me of the power that art has to connect us all.

7. How do you keep your creativity fresh and innovative?

For me, it is about flowing with the changes around me. The world is constantly shifting—new technologies emerge, new methods of creation are developed, and I believe the key is to adapt. I make it a point to learn something new every day, whether it is a skill, a technique, or even just a way of thinking. Staying curious, staying open to new possibilities, keeps my creativity alive. I do not just want to stay relevant—I want to keep growing, to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do.

8. What are the main obstacles you have had to overcome in your artistic journey?

Obstacles are inevitable, but I have learned to see them as gifts. Whether it is comparing myself to others, lacking resources, or facing unexpected challenges, I have found that each obstacle is an opportunity to grow. Life throws curveballs at us to see how we will rise to the occasion. For me, it has been about staying solution-oriented, never letting setbacks define me. Instead, I welcome them as moments to learn, to evolve, and to become stronger, both as an artist and as a person.

9. What advice would you give to someone trying to break into the art world?

Be true to yourself. The art world is vast and can be overwhelming, but the only way to stand out is by being authentic. Do not chase trends or imitate others—find your own voice and let it guide you. Also, consistency is key. Establish a routine, dedicate time every day to your craft, and keep creating, even when it feels like no one is watching. Your passion and dedication will eventually shine through.

10. Is there a technique or medium you would like to explore more in the future?

I am fascinated by the idea of multimedia—combining technology with physical elements, merging digital art with sensory experiences. I want to push the boundaries of what art can be, incorporating elements like smell, touch, and sound into my work. Imagine walking into a space where you can not only see the art but also feel it, smell it, hear it—it becomes an immersive experience. That is where I see my future heading, blending the digital with the physical in ways that engage all the senses.

11. Where do you draw inspiration for your creative projects? Are there personal passions, or does your background influence your work in some way?

Nature is my constant source of inspiration. There is a purity in nature’s design—its simplicity yet complexity, its balance. I am also deeply influenced by cultural symbolism. Symbols have the power to speak across time and language, and I want to incorporate that universality into my work. My background has given me an appreciation for different cultures and philosophies, and I draw from these to create art that feels meaningful and timeless.

12. What passions do you have outside of art, and how do these passions reflect in your creations?

I am a naturally curious person, and that curiosity extends far beyond the realm of art. I love traveling, cooking, building things, 3D printing, and learning about different languages and cultures. All these interests feed into my work. For example, when I travel, I observe how people live, how cultures differ and yet share commonalities. It all becomes part of the worlds I create. My love for building things also shows in my approach to 3D art, where I am literally constructing digital worlds.

13. What is the place, real or imagined, that inspires you the most?

The place that inspires me the most is one that brings me peace. It could be a real location or an imagined world, but it is always a place that feels emotionally grounded, like home. Somewhere that evokes a sense of calm and serenity, yet holds within it the possibility of discovery. That sense of peaceful exploration is something I try to translate into my art—a balance between the familiar and the fantastical.

14. Is there a cultural, historical, or contemporary icon who has had a significant impact on your artistic journey?

While I do not have a specific icon, I draw a lot of inspiration from various cultures and their histories. The philosophies, the symbols, the way people express themselves through art—all of these influence my work. I believe that by looking to the past, we can create something new for the future.

15. Can you tell us about a recent experience that gave a new spark to your creativity?

Recently, 3D printing has revolutionized the way I approach art. It is like having a mini factory in my home, allowing me to take my digital creations and bring them into the physical world. The idea that I can create something tangible from my imagination is incredibly empowering, and it has opened up a whole new realm of possibilities for me. It is not just about creating art on a screen anymore—it is about building something real, something people can touch and interact with.

16. What books, films, or music are a constant source of inspiration for you?

Inception is one of my favorite films because it explores the concept of dream worlds, something that resonates deeply with me. In terms of books, I am drawn to philosophy and the study of cultures, particularly Japanese and Korean culture. There is so much wisdom and beauty in these traditions, and I find them endlessly inspiring. As for music, I gravitate towards soundtracks and original scores—they set the perfect mood for my creative process, helping me step into the worlds I am trying to build.

17. When you feel creatively blocked, what do you do to regain inspiration?

I return to nature. There is something about being surrounded by trees, water, and open sky that resets my mind. In those moments, I do nothing but breathe and observe. It is a way of reconnecting with the source of my creativity and allowing ideas to flow naturally, without forcing them.

18. Is there a project or collaboration that has truly reflected your personal passions?

The project with Hyundai and Inspire Resort was one of those rare collaborations that truly embodied my artistic passions. It combined digital art with physical installations, creating a permanent sculpture at the most luxurious resort in Korea. It was the perfect blend of innovation and creativity, merging technology with the natural world. The experience of seeing something I imagined become a tangible, lasting work of art was incredible. It was not just a piece of art; it was a solution to a real-world problem, a vision made real. The positive reception, the way it resonated with people, and how it became a viral sensation were all beyond what I could have imagined. It felt like everything I had learned, every part of me, had come together in that project.

19. How do you translate your emotions and passions into a visual language that can also resonate with brands?

Each brand has its own unique story, its own identity, and my role as an artist is to find a visual language that aligns with that. It is not about applying a one-size-fits-all approach; it is about deeply understanding the brand—what they stand for, their goals, and their audience. I work closely with them to create something that is not only aesthetically beautiful but also meaningful, something that connects emotionally with people. Whether it is through the use of color, form, or symbolism, I aim to visually express the essence of the brand while staying true to my own artistic voice. It is a delicate balance, but when done right, it creates something powerful and lasting.

20. What meaning do you attribute to the creative process compared to the final result?

I live by the philosophy that “the path is the goal.” I even have it tattooed on my leg in German, a constant reminder that the journey itself is where the magic happens. The creative process is not just a means to an end; it is the heart of the entire experience. Every moment—whether it is brainstorming, problem-solving, or collaborating with a team—is part of the artwork. The final result is important, of course, but it is the accumulation of all the small, dedicated efforts along the way that truly matters. The beauty of art is not just in what we create but in how we create it, and I strive to be present and give my best at every step.

21. What role does failure or mistakes play in your creative process?

Failure is not something I fear—in fact, I see it as a gift. Every mistake or setback is an opportunity to learn, to improve, to grow. I believe that the universe or God presents us with challenges not to hold us back but to prepare us for something greater. For instance, when my computer breaks down during a project, it is frustrating, but I know it is a sign to step back, reassess, and fix things before something bigger comes along. These failures often happen at just the right time, preparing me for major projects where everything needs to run smoothly. I view them as blessings in disguise, teaching me resilience and sharpening my skills.

22. What drives you to explore new mediums, and how have new technologies transformed your creative process?

Curiosity. I am driven by a deep-seated curiosity to explore and push boundaries. It is not just about trying something new for the sake of it—it has to resonate with me on a personal level. When NFTs were trending, I did not jump on the bandwagon because it felt like a fad that did not align with my values. But when it comes to something like 3D printing or robotics, I feel a genuine connection because it offers a way to blend the digital with the physical in ways that excite me. These new technologies have completely transformed how I create, offering tools and possibilities that were unimaginable just a few years ago. They allow me to build immersive, interactive experiences that engage people on multiple levels.

23. Where does your passion for art come from?

I wish I could explain it, but the truth is, it feels like it was just written into me from the start. I believe we all have a purpose, and art happens to be mine. There are many questions I have about myself, about why I was made this way, but I accept that it is my mission in this world to create. Some people are called to do other things, but for me, it has always been art. It is how I express myself, how I connect with the world, and how I hope to make an impact. I guess you could say it is my gift, and I feel blessed to have found it.

24. Is there a recurring theme that runs through all of your work?

Escapism, surrealism, and fantasy are the threads that tie all my work together. I aim to create worlds that allow people to step away from reality, even if just for a moment, and dive into something otherworldly. My art is about exploring the unknown, about opening up to wonder and possibility. There is always a sense of curiosity, a desire to discover something new, and an invitation for the viewer to lose themselves in that journey. It is a celebration of the imagination, of what could be, and a reminder that there is magic in the world if we choose to see it.

25. Is there a work you would like to create but have not found the way to yet?

I have a vision of creating something massive, something that engages all the senses—sight, sound, touch, even smell. It would be a large-scale exhibition, blending robotics, art, and sensory experiences into one immersive space. People would not just view the art; they would feel it, hear it, smell it. It would be an experience that touches their emotions on every level. I have the concept in my head, but the challenge is the budget. It is a huge undertaking, and I have not yet found the resources to bring it to life. But I believe it will happen one day, and when it does, it will be something truly extraordinary.

26. How do you decide when a piece is truly finished?

To be honest, projects are often finished when the deadline arrives. That is the reality of working in this industry—there is always a timeline, and you work with that in mind. But through careful planning and relentless effort, I push to reach 100% by the time the deadline comes. It is not about rushing the process; it is about understanding the limits of time and working with precision to ensure everything is ready. In the end, it is about making sure that when the clock strikes, the work is not just finished—it is at its best.

27. What role do you think art plays in today’s society?

Art is a reflection of the soul of society. In today’s world, where everything moves at a rapid pace and we are constantly bombarded by information, art offers a moment of stillness, a moment of introspection. It is a way for us to express, to question, to inspire, and to connect. Art has the power to reach people on an emotional level, to make them pause and think about their place in the world. It is not just about aesthetics—it is about impact. Whether it is sparking a conversation, evoking an emotion, or offering a sense of hope, art has a profound role in shaping the way we see ourselves and each other. In a world overflowing with content, it is the art that speaks to the heart and soul that stands out.