Every one of his monochrome compositions is a complex CAD (computer-aided design) based mobile work, which is characterised by a series of elements placed at the forefront of a large canvas and frame. The elements are typically metal and are attached to a mechanism at the back of the construction, which allow them to move together constantly, creating a continuous and unique pattern every time. The motifs that are formed are abstract in nature although they do call into question the attributes of positive and negative space, meaning the shapes that they create in the mind’s eye, in contrast to the rest of the space surrounding them.
Kinetic art was initially developed as an artform in the early 20th century, as witnessed by the various sculptural works of Vladimir Tatlin, Alexander Rodchenko, and Alexander Calder, the latter being the most famous representative of it. Essentially kinetic art is any medium that incorporates dynamic moving elements that are perceivable by the viewer. Van Weeghel, however, manages to elevate kinetic artform within his works by incorporating technological advancements previously unseen within the art world: integrated computerised mechanisms which are hidden away from the viewer. The artist has stated that he has purposefully concealed the electronic components, as he views them as merely instrumental in achieving what he really wants: an attempt to visualize the passage of time.
The works to be shown at Erarta are mesmerizing and require the viewer to pause in front of them for a period of time in order to absorb the incredible unfolding mosaics. In addition to the hanging works which are typical of the artist, Erarta museum has also collaborated with van Weeghel on a special large scale immersive sculptural work, which will be shown on the ground floor of the special two-storey exhibition space at the museum. Here, the viewer will be able to walk amongst large tree-like mobile sculptures, thus integrating himself into the world of van Weeghel. Unmissable.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special exhibition in January 2022.
Exhibition curator – Dasha Vass
Willem van Weeghel was born in 1956 in the city of Wageningen in the Netherlands. Van Weeghel went on to graduate as a fine arts teacher and for his university graduation project he produced his first kinetic object, eventually coming back to focus solely on this movement after dabbling in others. Works by Willem van Weeghel have been shown in a number of prestigious art fairs from Art Cologne to Art Paris and London Kinetica Art Fair. Additionally, his pieces have been shown in a number of prominent museums, such as Museum Kranenburgh Bergen, whilst the American Institute of Architects in Washington, DC commissioned a work titled Look Up. Furthermore, Van Weeghel’s works can be found in various distinguished private collections globally.
