In–between is an exhibition of work by Frank Straatman and Wia van Dijk.
Qua form and methods their work stands in juxtaposition. In content there is a common ground, making the confrontation between the two artists worthwhile. Straatman’s human figures mirror the internal and place themselves opposite Van Dijk’s abstract and linear painted works. Her distinctive realistic use of colour gives an insight into memory and the inner life of the aging person. In-between, through it’s dual aspect, gives us an insight into the constantly evolving world of human emotion. 

Frank Straatman shows spatial human figures improvised in their creation using a variety of materials. His figures stand in seemingly impossible positions. Distortions, fragility and a delicate balance are in contrast with the sometimes proud dance positions. In this contrast Straatman looks for a basic form of hope as defined by Vaclac Havel; disconnected from the eventually of a good outcome. Hope as a position, a movement that is only possible in the mind.

For many years colour has played a prominent role in the work of Wia van Dijk. Currently Van Dijk lets her palette be chosen by others and it is through the use of these ‘offered’ colours that the abstraction of her work aquires a realistic (human) element. In the larger as well as the smaller painted works, Van Dijk uses colour from her ‘levensaderprojekt’, ongoing since 2015. Her way of working is systematic but offers space for the unforeseen and undefinable where an inextricable unity explores contrast.

Straatman and Van Dijk have previously worked together, including their recent Interface project. Interface is currently on show at sculpturepark Landgoed Anningahof in Zwolle. Here is another opportunity to see a creative confrontation between the two artists, in the figurative, expressionistic approach from Straatman and the conceptual approach by Van Dijk through the repitition of coloured elements. www.anningahof.nl