S Y L V I A

V A N   O P S T A L L

Sylvia van Opstall's latest series of works offers an exploration of natural expressive language. Faced with clear outlines, layered structures, and contained tonality, we experience landscape-like depth and simple intimacy at once.

Van Opstall's botanical silhouettes stand out in static monochromes and radically graphic close-ups. Outside their contours, meanwhile, a fabric unfolds that acts as a counterpoint reaction both in terms of technical complexity and pictorial dynamics. Intricate reliefs and elaborate structures ripple out like water and rhythmically resonate beyond the actual confines of the work.

The stark interplay between the closeness of simple shapes and the field-like expanse that emanates from them is further enhanced by the delicate application of metal leaf techniques that marks the artist's signature process. It provokes ambient light in such a multifaceted way that it redefines the space of the viewer with every step. Like an ever-changing landscape.

The craftsmanship involved is the product of synthesizing the ancient traditions that have fascinated van Opstall ever since her childhood. Through in-depth research of Japanese lacquers and printing, Russian icons, and Italian fresco techniques, she has developed over the years an array of recipes and processes that perfectly match with modern insights. Her materials consist of linen, paper, paint and metal leaf mainly.

As commissions, van Opstall produces works ranging from small-sized to monumental pieces. What she focuses on first of all, is how a given piece should integrate with its ambience and she welcomes working this out in close collaboration with architects and interior designers.