Dare to dream by Karen van de Vliet




Dare to dream by Karen van de Vliet
By Karen van de Vliet
140 x 110, 2020
Mixed acrylic paint on cotton
From the series Nothing is black and white
Moving away from line and figurative art, Karen van de Vliet developed a new approach to her work that is focused on embracing an imperfect beauty. Working with the concept of a stain, Karen was able to go back to the base, to the essence, which continues to be at the core of her practice. She is intrigued by shapes that have arisen on the weathered, chipped, broken, planed and dented surfaces. In these weathered parts Karen finds the essence of true beauty. Taking inspiration from these findings, she creates wondrous abstract pieces that contemplate imperfection. Acrylic paint, water and differing other materials are intuitively applied - often to unstretched cotton - giving free rein to expression.
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By Karen van de Vliet
80 × 60 cm, 2026
Mixed acrylic paint on cotton, framed
In Translucent XIII, Karen van de Vliet approaches painting as both image and physical object. Translucent materials extend across the surface like overlapping veils, while thick passages of pale blue, white and deep navy introduce weight and texture.
Vertical lines hold the composition together and form a counterpoint to the irregular contours of the painted layers. Amber tones and small accents of yellow, red and pink remain visible through and alongside the more opaque areas. The work changes subtly with the light, continually shifting the balance between transparency, colour and material presence.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.
By Karen van de Vliet
85 × 65 cm, 2026
Mixed Acrylic paint on cotton, framed
In Translucent VIII, Karen van de Vliet uses pale blue, white and soft pink to create a composition that feels calm yet vibrant. Transparent layers overlap with bold lines and textured passages, allowing colour to appear suspended within the work. The combination of movement and stillness gives the painting a strong architectural presence while maintaining a sense of openness.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.
By Karen van de Vliet
85 × 65 cm, 2026
Mixed Acrylic paint on cotton, framed
Translucent VII by Karen van de Vliet combines subtle pastel colours with darker elements and transparent layers. The composition reveals itself gradually, with areas of pink, cream, black and vivid accents emerging from beneath the surface. The work reflects the artist's ongoing interest in transparency and material, resulting in a painting with both presence and restraint.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.
By Karen van de Vliet
85 × 65 cm, 2026
Mixed Acrylic paint on cotton, framed
In Translucent VI, Karen van de Vliet works with luminous colours and transparent layers that reveal traces of movement and gesture. Areas of soft pink, lavender, yellow and black are brought together within a composition that feels open and spacious. The work occupies a place between painting and object, inviting the viewer to look closely at the relationship between colour, texture and light.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.
By Karen van de Vliet
85 × 65 cm, 2026
Mixed Acrylic paint on cotton, framed
Karen van de Vliet created Translucent IV as a balance between softness and contrast. Transparent layers surround areas of lilac, blue, pink and black, while strong vertical lines introduce rhythm to the composition. The tactile surface gives the work a sculptural quality, allowing colour to appear almost suspended within the material. The painting changes character throughout the day as light interacts with its layered surface.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.
By Karen van de Vliet
80 × 60 cm, 2026
Mixed acrylic paint on cotton, framed
Translucent XIV is built from translucent planes that partially reveal the colours, gestures and textures beneath them. Karen van de Vliet combines these fluid surfaces with areas of granular white paint, soft peach and lilac, vivid cobalt blue and a dark graphite form.
Fine vertical lines run through the composition, bringing rhythm and definition to materials that otherwise appear to flow beyond fixed boundaries. Some colours remain sharply visible, while others become softened or suspended beneath the translucent surface. The result is a tactile painting in which light becomes an active part of the composition.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.