At Fincul, we revel in the dynamic fusion of finance and culture, spotlighting not only celebrated artists whose works adorn prestigious galleries or fetch staggering sums at international auctions but also undiscovered talents brimming with potential. These lesser-known artists present a unique opportunity for collectors and investors alike, offering the chance to uncover the next great masterpiece—after all, even Vincent van Gogh was once an obscure figure in his lifetime.
One such remarkable find is Marion Reber, a 75-year-old Swiss painter whose vibrant canvases exude a rare lightness and harmony. Her art, forged through personal reinvention, captures life’s beauty in a way that feels both timeless and profoundly needed today. In this exclusive interview, we explore the world of an artist whose journey is as inspiring as her creations.
Fincul Interview Marion Reber and the Lightness of Being
Fincul: Marion, your paintings exude a remarkable sense of lightness and harmony, qualities that feel like a balm in today’s challenging times. Where do you find the inspiration to infuse such attributes into your work?
Marion Reber: Our world today often feels heavy, weighed down by uncertainty and noise. Yet, I believe this very moment cries out for lightness, colour, and inspiration. My paintings come from a place deep within me—a desire to translate joy, hope, and beauty into something tangible. I want my art to be a quiet rebellion against the chaos, a reminder that there’s still room for harmony.
Fincul: Your “desert paintings” carry an authenticity that feels almost palpable. Have you ever travelled to a desert yourself?
Marion Reber: Oh yes, I have. Back in the 1980s, my late husband and I spent three months travelling through the Sahara. It was an unforgettable experience—the vastness, the silence, the way the light danced across the dunes. Those memories still linger and find their way onto my canvases. The desert has a way of stripping everything down to its essence, and I try to capture that in my work.
Fincul: One of your most striking pieces, The Lightness of Being, seems to embody freedom and joy. What does this painting mean to you, and when do these forms and colours come to life in your process?
Marion Reber: The Lightness of Being is a celebration of freedom, unburdened by the weight of the world. For me, it’s about embracing life’s vibrancy—colour, form, movement. Those qualities emerge when I’m in a state of flow, when I feel unencumbered and alive. The painting is my way of saying, “Look, life can still be beautiful, no matter what.”
Fincul: Is there a particular time of day or season that sparks your creativity more than others?
Marion Reber: It varies. Inspiration doesn’t keep a schedule! Sometimes I’m up late at night, caught in a whirlwind of thoughts and ideas that demand to be painted. Other times, it’s the soft light of a Swiss autumn or the stillness of early morning that pulls me to the canvas. Each moment has its own energy, and I follow where it leads.
Fincul: Your painting The Blue Girl in the Desert (shared on Instagram) is particularly evocative. What inspired this piece?
Marion Reber: That painting is deeply personal. It’s rooted in memories of solitude, the vastness of the desert, and the profound stillness that comes with it. The blue girl represents a kind of quiet resilience—a figure standing alone yet strong in an endless landscape. It’s about finding peace in isolation, something I felt keenly after my husband’s passing.
Fincul: You mentioned starting to paint after the loss of your husband six years ago. How has art shaped your journey since then?
Marion Reber: Art saved me. After my husband died, I was adrift, grappling with grief. Painting became my lifeline, a way to process loss and rediscover purpose. It’s not an exaggeration to say it brought me back to life. Now, when I hear that my work brings joy or inspiration to others, it feels like a gift—one I’m grateful to share.
Fincul: What has been the highest price a work of yours has fetched so far?
Marion Reber: I sold a commissioned piece for 1,900 CHF. It was a meaningful project, and knowing the buyer connected so deeply with it made the experience even more rewarding.
Fincul: You’ve exhibited in several countries—Switzerland, Germany, Argentina, Denmark, and Italy. Is there a dream gallery where you’d love to showcase your work?
Marion Reber: I’d be thrilled to exhibit in a gallery that champions contemporary abstract art and offers personal, thoughtful curation. A space that values the story behind the work as much as the work itself. I’m not chasing fame, but a meaningful connection with viewers through a gallery that understands my vision.
Fincul: For art lovers eager to own one of your pieces, how can they purchase your work?
Marion Reber: I prefer a personal touch. Interested buyers can reach me directly through my website. It’s important to me to connect with those who resonate with my art.
Fincul: Marion, your story and your work are a testament to the transformative power of art. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. For those eager to follow your work, where can they find you online?
Marion Reber: You can explore my art on my website artislife.ch, or get in touch via email from my site. I’m also active on Instagram, where I share glimpses of my process and new works.
Fincul: Many thanks, Ms. Reber, for this engaging interview. Wishing you all the best for the future!
Marion Reber’s art is a vibrant reminder that beauty and lightness can emerge even from life’s most challenging moments. Her paintings, steeped in personal history and universal emotion, are a must-see for anyone seeking inspiration in the intersection of art and soul. To stay connected with the latest in art, finance, and culture, follow Fincul on Facebook and X. And keep an eye on Marion Reber—she’s an artist whose star is quietly, brilliantly rising.
Photocredits: Marion Reber
