Magazine

20 august 2024, Flor Linckens

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns: in search of an elusive moment

Where Are You, Bildhalle

Until 31 August, Bildhalle in Amsterdam presents a solo exhibition by Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns. The work of the Dutch artist is characterised by a delicate interplay of melancholy, stillness and fluid movement. In her poetic and cinematic images, Ariëns explores the space between dream and reality, in search of an elusive moment just beyond our reach.

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns, Where are you #28, 2017, Bildhalle

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns was born in Heerlen in 1968 and currently lives and works in Amsterdam. She studied at the Ballet Academy in Tilburg and spent many years as a professional dancer and model. This background has given her a profound understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of the human body, a kind of muscle memory and artistic sensitivity that she has been incorporating into her artistic work for the past seven years.

A unique feature of Ariëns' monochromatic work is her use of the photopolymer etching technique, an old printing method primarily used by printmakers. Photographic images are transferred onto a plate that has been sensitised with photopolymer film. In her process, the artist makes use of contact exposure. The artisanal and labour-intensive process allows Ariëns to approach her work as a painter would: layer by layer, she applies ink to her photographs by hand. This manual process ensures that each piece is unique, resulting in a special materiality, a delicate imperfection and a nearly palpable depth.

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns, This Present Moment #2, 2020, Bildhalle

Ariëns is known for her intuitive approach, leaving room for serendipity. In her work, she brings together the inner life of the human spirit with the fragility and serene elegance of the physical body. Although couture and fabrics often play a subtle role in her images, her practice stands apart from glamorous fashion photography. At the same time, various collaborations with couture have emerged from her artistic work. In her imagery, Ariëns freezes fleeting, fragile plays of light and shadow, resulting in visuals that seem detached from time and space. Thematically, her work addresses concepts such as time, transience, intimacy, the inner world, the subconscious, memory, vulnerability and inner strength.

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns, Fille et Garçons #5, 2022, Bildhalle

The exhibition ‘Where Are You’ by Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns will be on view at Bildhalle in Amsterdam until 31 August 2024.

In this article

Flor Linckens

Free Magazine Subscription

Articles, interviews, shows & events. Delivered to your mailbox weekly.

20 august 2024, Flor Linckens

Chantal Elisabeth Ariëns: in search of an elusive moment

Current shows