Though Dutch ‘stilleven’, or still life painting, had its heyday in the 17th century, the exhibit of 33 still lifes painted by Dutch artist, Wilfried van den Boorn, reflects the artist’s innovative contemporary interpretation of the genre. The precision, attention to detail and texture and refinement of his technique, highlights the small unexpected details of his subject matter.
Inspired by the work of painters such as René Margaritte and Salvador Dali, Wilfried van den Boorn’s early career was focused on a surrealistic approach and eventually evolved towards a sober form of realism. However, at the beginning of the 21st century, the violence, war and injustice that he observed in society, caused him to turn away from realism and inspired him to further develop the still life subject.
In describing his source of inspiration, Mr van den Boorn said, “Most people don’t really look and really see the world around them… When you take things out of context, then people take another look: people see things in a new way.” His subject is often focused on flowers, most of which come from his own garden, and the desire to create “harmony that is often missing in hectic day-to-day life. In my work, the observer can find a quiet focal point for both eye and mind.”
While Wilfried van den Boorn’s work is often exhibited in museums (currently some of his work is part of the group exhibition “Klein, Kleiner, Kleinst” in Museum Mohlmann), this is a rare opportunity to view such a large collection of his work.
BSN staff, teachers and community members are invited to attend the official opening of the exhibition on Thursday 26 September 16:00 – 20:00 at the BSN Language Centre. To confirm attendance, please RSVP [email protected] by 19 September 2019.
This exhibition will be on display in the BSN Language Centre until 14 November 2019 and visits can be arranged by appointment via [email protected].
Visit www.wilfriedvandenboorn.nl to learn more about the artist and his work.