THE SAGE STRENGTH OF GESTURE: PATRICK VAN RIEMSDIJK'S PAINTINGS

As the high season dawns over Tuscany, we are honoured to announce our new collaboration with Dutch artist Patrick Van Riemsdijk, presenting a selection of his abstract paintings at KALPA's main venue in Volterra. Characterised by a minimalist aesthetic and expressionism where matter and spirit move in harmony, his body of work embraces the core principles of Western abstract art and Zen paintings, embedding Japanese values of equilibrium and serenity in creation.

Integrated within the historic interiors of the Gallery, Patrick’s paintings radiate energy, revealing the power of sincere and spontaneous gestures. In his creative process, practices of meditation, mental clarity, and detachment are fundamental. Within his studio, time dissolves, and distractions fade into the background, allowing pure expression to flow.

"The goal is not a perfect representation but rather an expression of the artist’s inner spirit. My work invites viewers to reflect and contemplate, creating a profound connection between the artwork and the observers."

Born in Utrecht into a family of artists, Patrick’s interest in painting took root early and never wilted. A life-changing journey to Japan ignited his creativity, inspired by the country’s timeless beauty, rich culture, colours, philosophy, and people. Drawing from these elements, his works evoke a fusion of purity and balance, inviting the viewer to pause and to simply exist, fostering a deeper awareness of our being. 

The artist’s hand leaves its mark on the canvas in search of lingering feelings and images, while holding his breath within the act of creation. Like writing a new language, Patrick presents a unique narrative made of novel symbols and codes, borne by fluid, ongoing gestures fueled by inner energy. Each sign embodies the artist's intuitive and meditative approach to art, alternating between moments of stillness and motion. The lessons of Japanese calligraphy resonate strongly in his work, with each brushstroke conveying a dynamic movement that reveals a universal life force.

Moving from Amsterdam to Mallorca brought a new wellspring of inspiration, as the island’s breathtaking landscape became central to his evolving vision. His palette warmed, the energy softened, and contrasts relaxed, reflecting the tranquil essence of the surroundings. In the serenity of his atelier, Patrick finds inspiration in the earthy hues of the landscape, embodying the tranquility that infuses his work. His daily routine includes meditation, music, and flavorful moments, nourishing his creative spirit.

"Living on this beautiful island makes it so much easier to find happiness and lead a balanced life. The sun, nature and the slower pace of living are the true luxuries, which are reflected in my work as well."

“Some people recognize my message. Some do not. But my work always makes people think. It can evoke different feelings in everyone; there is no right or wrong.”

The evocative titles of some of the paintings exhibited at KALPA, such as Echoes from the Universe and Whispers of the Cosmos, mirror Patrick's exploration and recent study of universal themes, from cosmic symbolism to the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. While other paintings directly refer to the artist's practices of meditation and guiding the mind from chaos to focus, these works evoke a sense of unity, like stars in the night sky, which act as reminders of our place within an infinite whole.

On Patrick's canvases, geometry dissolves into fluidity, while symbolic elements seek to bring order to chaos. Colour takes central stage: vivid, vibrant, bold, becoming the core of each trace of the artist’s energetic passage. His layered approach, thick and thin, sometimes is wiped away to reveal hidden hues, with the effect of interplays of nuances.

Areas of dense application evoke structure and immediacy, inviting viewers into woven visual stories: reflections of Mallorca’s quiet charm, daily life, or emotions. With each brushstroke, Patrick invites us into his world, sharing with us moments of clarity, inspirations from Nature, and reflections of the universe itself.

Continue the journey to discover Patrick's art and vision - watch the following poetic short video that reveals his creative process:

C R E D I T S :

Photography of Patrick Van Riemsdijk's studio and artworks: Courtesy the Artist

Photography of Patrick Van Riemsdijk's work at KALPA: Pui Yi @puipuiphoto

Video portrait of Patrick Van Riemsdijk: Santino Lamorte @santinolamorte, Courtesy the Artist

Quotes: Patrick Van Riemsdijk

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