Avatars, personal representations in forums, chats, social networks, and apps; Hand gestures and poses in the virtual world and on selfies;... Read More
Avatars, personal representations in forums, chats, social networks, and apps; Hand gestures and poses in the virtual world and on selfies; the 1563 proclamation by Cecil explicitly governing the reproduction of model portraits, thereby preserving Queen Elizabeth I's control over her appearance are sources of inspiration that Nadja Willekens uses to approach portraiture in a contemporary context.
Willekens focuses on adopting diverse identities and the alienation that ensues. In the era of digital technology, novel modes of self-presentation have emerged. These digital individuals shield themselves behind internet personas, maintaining anonymity in an increasingly interconnected realm.
She returns to traditional painting techniques and combines them with unconventional applications, such as vibrant colours as underpainting mixed with visible structures, intricate patterns, and unpainted areas.