25 june 2024, Flor Linckens
Last chance: Ado Hamelryck's meditations on black
Until 29 June, Gallery Sofie Van den Bussche in Brussels is displaying a solo exhibition by Ado Hamelryck. In his practice, the Belgian artist systematically explores all possible shades of black. Still, he often refers to himself as a colorist, viewing black not merely as the absence of colour, but as a potent entity in its own right.
Artists have always been fascinated by the colour black, even those known for their use of colour. It is a potent, mysterious, meditative and symbolic colour that exudes a certain authority and emotion. It is therefore no surprise that the equally acclaimed and controversial artist Anish Kapoor immediately licensed the blackest black exclusively.
In a portrait documentary with Julie Mistiaen, Hamelryck said: "[The colour black represents] total darkness, absolute nothingness. In our society, this instills fear because everything associated with darkness, with black, is often seen pejoratively. This fear arises because through science we strive to control everything. That's something you have to learn to let go of."
Initially starting with a figurative practice that encompassed more colours, Hamelryck soon dedicated his artistic life to the colour black. His contemplative works, created with materials such as collage, acrylic, and Indian ink on Nepalese handmade paper, are characterised by a certain repetitive slowness and a quest for purity. He employs signs, a form of writing in an abstract script that carries no clear meaning. It is a repetitive code that the artist has likened to body language. Visitors are invited to interpret his signature in their own way.
Hamelryck's works are also marked by a distinct rhythm. Therefore, it is not surprising that the artist has often exhibited his work accompanied by musical compositions or soundscapes. He has collaborated with composer Pieter Schuermans and musician Frans Geysen, among others.
