The invisible symphony by Stefan Annerel
“The purpose of art is to show the invisible.” With these words, the painter Paul Klee wanted to demonstrate that art has the gift of showing the world in a unique way again and again. With his third exhibition at Art Gallery De Wael 15, which was given the cryptic title 'Within the Invisible', Stefan Annerel takes up the challenge to take us to this invisible world. He wants to break the boundaries of perception and explore the nuances of the elusive.
The title of the exhibition, “Within the Invisible,” invites contemplation. He suggests a journey to the inner self, to that which remains hidden from the eye. Annerel seems to guide the viewer through a wealth of meanings that are not immediately visible, but rather palpable, tangible in the ether of his art.
The works of art again consist of a base of wood and/or glass on which a labyrinth of paper, fabric, acrylic, epoxy and paint is created using collage techniques. Only the inspirational motifs are different for this third exhibition. This time, no plastic bags, kitchen towels or other living room motifs as inspiration. For this exhibition he looked for and found inspiration in tartans, the checked woolen fabric from which Scottish kilts are made. A conscious choice that ensures that, in contrast to the two previous exhibitions, his work becomes even more colorful and deeper.
Indeed, the works within this exhibition form a harmonious symphony of colors, shapes and concepts. Annerel's brushstrokes and artistic choices challenge, play with the duality of visible and invisible. His use of layers and textures creates a depth that invites the viewer to look beyond the surface and discover the hidden stories.
An exercise in looking…
'Within the Invisible' forces us to pause and look beyond the visible, to be guided by the intriguing world that lies behind the surface of his creations. By varying materials he creates a dynamic play of contrasts in his compositions. His paintings exude a vibrancy, where colors and shapes dance in harmony and at the same time in conflict. It is a visual symphony that challenges the viewer to find meaning in the apparent chaos. There is no 'correct' way to look at this Scottish display of colour. Take some time to carefully observe not only the works but also the viewers. Usually the observation begins from a respectful distance, a respectful contemplation of image and space. In a subsequent stage, this hesitation will be overcome and viewing will almost take on a voyeuristic edge when one almost presses one's nose against the work to take in every imperfection, every color. Usually one ends with a slight turn of the head to get a better picture of the different layers on the side.
... but also in feeling
A central element in 'Within the Invisible' is the artist's amazement at being captivated by the subtle color shifts at the border of two color spots. Annerel's art also builds a bridge between the visible and the invisible, translating the nuances of human feelings into images. Wassily Kandinsky's quote The color is the key. The eye is the hammer. The soul is the piano with its many strings, it cannot be described better.
Each work in 'Within the Invisible' invites you to discover your own composition in the abstract shapes and vibrant colors. Before your eyes they melt into scores where colors become sounds. Annerel seems to be saying that art is not only meant to be viewed, but also to be felt, understood and internalized on a personal level.
'Within the Invisible' is more than just an exhibition title; it is an invitation to introspection, to explore what lies beyond the visible, to discover and appreciate the invisible layers of human existence. It is a journey through the magic of the hidden, where art and mystery come together in a unique symbiosis. Take your time, immerse yourself and discover the versatility of an artist who constantly explores the boundaries of his own imagination.
Text: Yves Joris