Tina Buchholtz: Concealed Spaces

Karin Weber Gallery presents Concealed Spaces: New Works by Tina Buchholtz, a German artist whose subject matter is contemporary society, its stresses, and its coping mechanisms. Buchholtz brings to the canvas tremendous depth, color and texture and suggests a world in constant motion. This chaos, however, is met in equal measure with what the artist refers to as ‘hiding places,’ or refuges for renewal.

“We are in a constant state of advance and retreat,” says Buchholtz.  “Exploration is in our nature, and we are firmly focused on the future. And yet, this state of being requires a counter balance; a place to withdraw, rest and begin anew. Balancing extremes is the ultimate challenge for humankind in a contemporary world.” Concealed Spaces offers visualizations of Buchholtz’s own retreats and personal inner sanctums.

In creating her works, the artist builds tension by introducing numerous layers of acrylic and glaze to the canvas, which are then partially removed by scraping or polishing.  The effect is heightened by the final addition of accent marks, applied using only the back of a spatula. This consistent process of layering, removing and accenting, in turn, creates secluded places for the viewer to connect with and to explore.