The Space Within
Thierry Harpes
In my current series The Space Within, I delve into the relationship between space and identity through a collection of paintings that share a common theme while exploring varied colours and layering techniques. Each piece serves as an exploration of emotional landscapes, inviting viewers to engage with the complexities of human experience.
The inspiration for this work often arises from my own sketches, which function as a personal lexicon that expands my understanding of form. These preliminary drawings allow for experimentation with shapes and ideas, forming a foundation for the paintings themselves. As Hans Belting once noted, “Art is not a thing, it is a way of seeing.” This notion resonates deeply within my creative process, as these sketches reflect a dialogue between thought and visual expression.
The colours in this series vary significantly, ranging from soft pastels to bold hues. This diversity reflects not just aesthetic choices but also narratives about the fluidity of identity. Each painting evolves organically; some feature multiple layers that create depth and a sense of time, while others maintain a simpler, more direct approach. This variation allows for the expression of different facets of the human condition, capturing moments of introspection and contemplation.
The creative process is influenced by inspiring music and an intuitive, performative approach. As I work, the rhythms and melodies guide my movements, transforming the studio into a space of exploration. This aligns with Jerry Saltz’s idea that “Art is a way to connect the dots,” where the act of creation becomes a means of making sense of one’s environment and experiences.
Deciding when to continue or halt the painting process often involves an intuitive dialogue with each piece. There are moments when a painting feels complete, resonating with an emotional truth, while at other times, additional layers reveal themselves as necessary to convey a deeper intent. This balancing act prompts reflection on the interplay between internal landscapes and external realities.
Through this series, I engage in a critical examination of my surroundings and the broader world. This exploration becomes a meditation on self-perception and the ways in which we are perceived by others. Each work invites viewers to contemplate their own journeys, echoing the sentiment that art can serve as a mirror reflecting our shared human experience.
Ultimately, this series seeks to embrace the creative process as an ongoing dialogue. Each painting represents a chapter in a larger narrative, exploring the balance between simplicity and complexity, clarity and ambiguity. The goal is to create a space for contemplation, inviting deeper engagement with the multifaceted nature of being human and encouraging viewers to reflect on their own identities within this context.