Bert Vredegoor | Deventer, Netherlands
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Delights of Life Above, 1986/7
mixed media on canvas, 200x120cmThis embellished expressionist painting shows a 2 barreled pipe construction that has been extinguished, yet its surroundings are glowing in golden light. Metaphysically speaking, the imagery could be related to the process of cleansing (of the soul) by fire. Following this theory, the painting could depict the aftermath of the so called Dark Night of the Soul, when through prayer or meditation, all earthly ties are temporarily abandoned to transcend to spiritual self awareness. In its entirety, the composed form could also be viewed as a cross.
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Community of the Folded Hands no. 2, 1992
copper, oil on canvas, 200x200cmThis dark and high gloss painting is intricately adorned with textural elements that create patterns and depth. The central gold shrine-like rectangle captures the focus of attention from which the view spans outwards towards the symmetrically placed points and the miniature devotional figures.
The Christian symbolism gives the paintings a thoughtful aspect and is aptly interpreted by the following passage:
If you bow your head
and feel uplifted –
this is true humility.
If you bow your head –
and feel lowered –
this is false humility.
First you must awaken point by point…
Imagine that you consist of a hundred points.
Each point is connected to the earth by a rope.
A hundred points!
From each point, however, a ray also ascends to God.(Talking with Angels, Mallasz, G., Daimon Verlag, 2nd ed., 1992)