In our latest FRANK conversation we were excited to sit down with Spanish-born New York–based artist Silvia Prada, known for her iconic collages and drawings documenting pop culture (whilst also contributing to a number of cult magazines). Silvia spoke of her fascination with the private worlds of 70s and 80s pop stars; her belief in the art of “desire over design”; and the hedonistic undercurrent that lingers in her work.
Is there a particular era or place you wish you could have worked in?
I love this question. Probably the private residence of any 70s or 80s pop star. The White House during its more glamorous eras. Madonna’s first apartment in the Harperley Hall building on Central Park West. And any papal apartment in the Vatican.
What’s an unusual source of inspiration that has found its way into your work?
I often find inspiration in objects and spaces untouched by design influence—places that feel unedited. I call it “desire over design.” You can only really find art in the absence of it.
Share a song that you listen to when feeling creatively challenged?
This is a difficult question, as my work is deeply connected to music and curation. At the moment, I’m listening to Higher State of Consciousness – Deep & Slow Chill by Josh Wink.
What's the ghost in your work—the thing that lingers but isn’t obvious?
Hedonism.
What’s the question you wish people would ask about your work but never do?
I’ve been asked many questions; I don’t feel like anything essential is missing.
What is your favourite piece from the Lemon collection, and why?
The Athens Stool. It’s a very powerful piece that embodies “less is more".
