
Originally from Ōtautahi and Brazil respectively, now newly returned, Hugo Van Dorsser and Catarina Arnhold live and create out of their Lyttelton home studio, where they sculpt, paint, form and splatter.
Testing the outcomes of most painterly mediums, Van Dorsser’s practice is true to the spirit of experimentation. Through a playful rambling which sees oil paint, liquid acrylic and at times collage; blown, brushed, drawn and slapped, a narrative emerges, incoherent yet fluid.
Differently, Arnhold’s practice lies in response to the chemistry of ceramic clay and glazes. When precision fails uncertainty excites, mistakes are enhanced while surplus is re-formed. Imagination, fantasy, and a kinship with the material guide her creations.
When caught at a standstill the two self taught artists will often swap mediums. This interdisciplinary process divulges new techniques and ideas where in bold colours and hewn forms traverse. Whether it’s predetermined or conceived through creation a story will emerge, often one warmly clutching something of sentimental value.
Opening night of their exhibition ‘Rear Window’ will begin from 5:00pm, January 24th at the Green Room, 5 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch.