Press Release for Bikkel her SEPTEMBER 1 - SEPTEMBER 28, 2010 Exhibition at AW Gallery NYC
"Edvard Munch once said that, “The way one sees is also dependent upon one's emotional state of mind. This is why a motif can be looked at in so many ways, and this is what makes art so interesting.” Bikkel, a Dutch Contemporary painter, creates artwork with acute emotional sensitivity like that described by Munch, combined with a superlative aesthetic eye. Her riveting style blends dynamic abstraction with figuration, resulting in surrealist artwork brimming with color, motion and the ephemeral aura of gripping empathy.
Bikkel illustrates Curaçao natives, often of an adult holding a small child, set against nautical backdrops. The Afro-Caribbean subjects seem to symbolize the present state of the country through the adult figure, and the future through the depiction of the toddler in arms. There are often three layers upon each of Bikkel’s works of art, as though “three transparent paintings were combined together.” In the first layer, Bikkel paints the human figures at the forefront of the composition. Bikkel paints her subjects facing frontwards in order to showcase them in an honest and essential manner. By situating her figures face forward, Bikkel exposes them so that the viewer may truly connect to the subject matter. She portrays the vulnerabilities and strength of human beings who have touched her heart with their struggles. The second layer gives an atmospheric element through diaphanous swirls, patterns and shapes in vibrant colors and smoky black. This interesting second layer lends the artwork an abstract modern edge while expressing Bikkel’s emotional connection to her art. Bikkel often paints the third layer of her paintings with often imagery of her childhood on the island of Curaçao, such as large ships, colorful homes and neighborhood churches. Bikkel’s audience is presented with a piece of a cherished memory upon seeing her artwork, for they have gained access into her heart and soul by viewing the glorious visual manifestations of her inner dialogue.
Bikkel was nominated for the 2009 Climate Prize Vlaardingen in the Netherlands. She has been featured in exhibitions throughout the world, including in China, Italy and the United States. Amsterdam Whitney Gallery is delighted to shine the spotlight on Bikkel’s phenomenal artwork."
Ruthie Tucker, Executive Director-Curator
