ANTWERP.- Modern Shapes recently welcomed artist Paul Bik to their gallery for which there was an opening weekend December 3rd and 4th in the presence of the artist. The exhibition will continue through December 18th, 2022.
When the adverse forces clash, he finds harmony. Balancing between geometry and distortion, mathematical precision and intuitive finishing touches, traditional craftsmanship and creation of new techniques, Paul Bik explores what lays at the boundary between contrasts.
His work, in both process and the outcome, reflects his personality. Introvert by heart, he alienates himself in the quiet, elaborate process of creating precise forms just to deharmonize them with extravert, imperfect, statement-like final gestures. Yet, the tension they bring is subtle enough not to let the imbalance dominate the final message.
Duality coexists in peace, just like the one artist finds in the semi-meditative state of honest, time-consuming craftsmanship. The sense of calm is easily transferred to the viewers. Bik aims for the essence of harmony - not by repetition of forms but bringing the unity to, often opposed, parts of his compositions. He works mostly with wood, cardboard, resin, plaster and paint, mixing traditional and original techniques. Light and shadows, casted by geometrical shapes, add another element to the decomposition, beyond artist’s control.
Monochromatic and raw, the forms are far from cold. They allure with textures, giving a strong haptic, sensual impression. The compositions are always abstract. To Bik, this is the most personal form of art, a reflection of the artist’s true self.
Paul's work reflects his personality. Introvert by heart, he applies an elaborate process of creating precise forms just to deharmonize them with extravert, statement-like final gestures. Paul aims for harmony by bringing unity to often opposed parts. The sense of calm is easily transferred to the viewers. Light and shadows, casted by geometrical shapes, add another element to the decomposition, beyond the artist control.
Founded in 2011, Modern Shapes Gallery is specialised in unique contemporary and modern sculptural art with an emphasis on ceramics. It is as much a gallery as it is a curated platform. It presents several exhibitions a year, dedicated to both rising and established talent. And it presents a very personal and balanced selection of objects, often balancing on the dividing line between design, art and architecture. Founder Michaël Francken’s personal taste and quirky passion results in a program that combines both high quality 20th century masters and more contemporary artists working on the balance between abstract, sculptural and architectural work. All bearing witness to craftsmanship and sculptural presence. As a result, Modern Shapes is a progressive and supportive space for emerging and established artists and their objects that is open on Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 1 pm to 6 pm or by appointment - Museumstraat 29, 2000 Antwerp.
