African Heat

Concept

I typically use brilliant, vigorous colours and strong contrasts in my paintings. Clear, often geometric, shapes and repetitive elements give a unique rhythm to my paintings, unifying and separating fore- and background at the same time. Therefore, an observer sometimes has to take a moment to differentiate the object presented from its background. I use simplified and well-defined forms. The contours of the subject remain mostly naturalistic. To increase the colours' impact I use extensive forms. The effect of the - often pure - colours is enhanced by the strong contrasts. The high purity of the colours makes the paintings appear to be flooded with light. The vivid colours emanate a joy of life and power. Strong contrasts create tension and energy. In my paintings, each fragmented part helps create the meaningful whole. I would like to create artworks in which the formal harmony of the colours and forms resonates with the viewer and conveys a sense of the possibility of completeness and unity of that person himself (or herself) even in our disconnected modern world. Despite the fragmented shapes, the contrasts and tensions, I am able to create a meaningful, harmonious whole with these elements. I think this is symbolic of our lives. All of our perception is partial and fragmented but we can still create a meaningful whole. This new visual experience resonates with the viewers and suggests that despite the disconnectedness and fragmentation of modern life, we too can create meaningful lives and feel at home in this world. My artworks reflect the beauty and positive energy of the subjects that inspire me to paint. I am particularly interested in animals and I would like to capture the magic in them. When we contemplate their being completely at home in nature, we too can feel at home in this world. I am also intrigued by scenes where people enjoy moments of their lives. I would like people to reconnect to those moments in their lives they view my art.