Ilse D'Hollander @ Sean Kelly

Belgian artist Ilse D'Hollander (1968 - 1997) produced a powerful body of work during the final years of her life, a selection of which is currently on view at Sean Kelly through February 6. The exhibition features 32 paintings and 23 works on paper, most dating from 1994-1996. In her intimately sized canvases and works on paper, D'Hollander transformed elements from the landscape and built world into abstractions, alternating between vigorous visual statements and more tentative, suggestive explorations. The tension present in all of her work captures the viewer's gaze and invites contemplation.
(Photos courtesy of Sean Kelly Gallery as noted)

D'Hollander's PAINTINGS, most less than 16 inches in height, are characterized by decisive compositions with visible brushwork. In some paintings, her palette is rich and marked by bold contrasts, while other paintings are far more subdued, both in color and structure. The paintings appear to be thoughtfully considered and bold, yet they also embody elements of uncertainty and mystery. That D'Hollander produced such a range of work over a brief period of time reflects a very personal approach -- one in which each painting suggests a unique and intense experience.

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   16 1/8 x 11 13/16 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1994/95    oil on canvas   15 3/4 x 13 3/4 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   23 5/8 x 21 1/4 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   27 3/16 x 21 7/8 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

The fragile but emphatic lines that appear in some of her canvases suggest acts of great courage. Painted across a completed field, each marks an irrevocable declaration, a statement of being present.

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   11 13/16 x 14 9/16 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   28  x 21 5/8 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on canvas   18 1/2 x 15 3/4 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Unlike the more considered quality of her canvases,  D'Hollander's PAINTINGS ON PAPER (in oil or gouache) are very immediate and energetic. The palette is generally quite saturated, and the compositions absolutely unapologetic. The mark of her hand is evident in the dynamic brushwork in each of these small gems. (See more of D'Hollander's works on paper in my post about a summer 2014 group exhibit at David Zwirner).

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on paper   6 7/8 x 4 15/16 inches  

© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    gouache on paper   7 x 5 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    gouache on paper   6 7/8 x 5 1/8 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

D'Hollander's paintings on paper, ranging in size from 7 x 5" to 13 x 9", invite close examination. The wonderful salon-style installation also allows for a lively conversation among these small works.

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on paper   12 5/8 x 9 1/2 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Ilse D'Hollander     Untitled, 1996    oil on paper   8 1/4 x 5 11/16 inches  
© The Estate of Ilse D’Hollander       Photo: Guy Braeckman       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Installation view of Ilse D'Hollander works on paper at Sean Kelly, New York
     Photo: Jason Wyche, New York       Courtesy: Sean Kelly, New York

Click here, for the current exhibit at Sean Kelly.
Click here, to see a complete overview of D'Hollander's work.