KENNETH FLIJDERS

KENNETH FLIJDERS

I am greatly inspired by elements from daily life in the multicultural Surinamese society. Normal everyday scenes such as carefree and relaxed celebrations and gatherings, the lively hustle and bustle at the marketplace, people in colorful traditional clothing such as the popular Surinamese kotomisi, are a continuous source of inspiration. I also find great pleasure in painting peaceful and pristine natural scenes and landscapes from our rich tropical rainforest. I am unequivocally attracted to the beauty of Surinamese nature. I also have a special affinity for the old and historical. Subjects and materials from our countries history truly fascinate me and I will in some way or another always incorporate historical themes and materials in my work. I am known for example to salvage shutters and doors from old deserted or condemned wooden buildings which I then transform into unique painted art objects which, aside from their artistic value, in my opinion also possess a valuable historic quality.
I like to experiment with several materials, styles and techniques and never limit myself to a predetermined plan during my creative processes. Figurative as well as abstract paintings, fine art prints done in several techniques, wooden sculptures and other multimedia experiments with found or natural materials on canvas, paper and hardboard are all part of my work. Fibers from palm trees and natural pigments which I extract from mahogany wood are materials I currently enjoy working with.