Austrian electronic music superstar Parov Stelar, known worldwide for his distinctive musical style, has revealed another side of his artistic talent as a passionate painter. The global phenomenon, whose real name is Marcus Füreder, recently discussed his visual art career at the ORF Upper Austria's "Treffpunkt Kunst" event series, where he shared insights about his large-format oil paintings that are gaining an increasingly devoted following.
Parov Stelar describes his life as "a trip" and "a cosmos of countless possibilities" in his recently published biography. Within this creative universe, two distinct artistic disciplines occupy significant space, representing what he calls his "two artistic universes." On one side stands his musical world, which Parov Stelar has shaped with his unmistakable style for more than twenty years as an exceptional musician celebrated by fans around the globe.
The Upper Austria-born artist has achieved remarkable success in the music industry, holding 10 Amadeus Music Awards, making him one of the most decorated artists in the history of this prestigious prize. However, music represents only half of his artistic identity. On the other side lies painting, which he considers his "firstborn artistic child" and an equally important creative outlet.
"Painting is like speaking with colors and staying silent with strokes," Parov Stelar explained during the event at the packed state studio. Through his large-format oil paintings, the artist born in Lichtenberg near Linz allows his audience to look deep into his soul. His visual works reveal a world full of dynamics and emotions, featuring both loud and quiet images that carry their own unique rhythm.
Speaking about the relationship between his two artistic pursuits, the exceptional artist described music and painting as "like two children." For him, there is no "either-or" choice between the disciplines. Without painting, Parov Stelar's music would be unthinkable, and vice versa. This interconnected creative approach has become fundamental to his artistic philosophy and output.
Parov Stelar's artistic journey began in a small graphic design office in Leonding, followed by studies in graphic design at the University of Art in Linz under Professor Herbert Lachmayr. He financed his own education, demonstrating his early commitment to artistic independence. "In art, it's important to break beauty," he explained. "Only then do perspectives open up that are genuine."
The artist's connection to his homeland remains strong. In late autumn 2023, Parov Stelar moved from Mallorca back to Linz, emphasizing that home is particularly important for him to recharge his creative energy. This return to his roots has influenced both his musical and visual artistic development.
As he prepares to celebrate his 51st birthday on Thursday, November 27, 2025, Marcus Füreder reflects on his wishes for the future. "I wish above all the best for my son," he stated. With a characteristic twinkle in his eye, he added, "And a Grammy and an Oscar." This playful comment reflects both his ambition and his lighthearted approach to his multifaceted career.
The event, which took place at a completely sold-out venue, demonstrated the growing interest in Parov Stelar's visual art. His oil painting titled "The Truth" represents the kind of work that has been attracting art collectors and fans alike, showing the same emotional depth and technical skill that characterizes his musical compositions.
