If You Put It On by Karen van de Vliet
If You Put It On by Karen van de Vliet
By Karen van de Vliet
290 x 140 cm, 2022
Mixed acrylic paint on cotton
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. She is intrigued by shapes that arise on weathered, chipped, broken, planed and dented surfaces. It is in these weathered parts that Karen finds the essence of true beauty. Taking inspiration from these findings, she creates wondrous abstract pieces that depart from her gravitation towards stains. Working with stains enables her to let go of all expectations and give free rein to expression. Hereby, acrylic paint, water and differing other materials are intuitively applied onto the surface. The search for a state of freedom without judgment ends when harmony is reached. When her eye is not drifting away, and attention is brought solely to the work itself. For Karen, creating an artwork is like getting to know a new piece of you with every action you take. In that way, Karen’s work can be described as a reflection of herself, as well as her environment; constantly moving and developing.
Personal delivery and installation within the Netherlands and Belgium are included with this work.
By Karen van de Vliet
120 × 90 cm, 2026
Mixed acrylic paint on cotton, framed
In Translucent IX, Karen van de Vliet explores the unexpected beauty of a stain: an irregular form that seems accidental yet is carefully composed. Her fascination with such shapes began in childhood, through encounters with ordinary things that appeared both beautiful and slightly off, such as autumn leaves gathered in a puddle.
Translucent materials allow colours and traces from underlying layers to remain visible. Pale blue, black and off-white are interrupted by narrow lines and vivid accents of red, yellow and fluorescent pink. Some elements appear to flow downwards, while thicker areas of paint sit prominently on the surface. The result is a tactile abstract painting that shifts between movement and stillness, precision and chance.
Delivery within the Netherlands and Belgium is arranged in consultation, either in person or securely shipped.