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Balatro

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Balatro
Balatro
About the artist
Sjaak Kooij
Sjaak Kooij
Artist Statement | In my work I use elements of actuality such as social, cultural or political issues that define our times. I take images from media and everyday events – alternated with footage from my personal archive – out of their original cont...
Material
oil, acrylic and spray paint on linen
Size
100x130 cm
Price
3910 € incl. vat, excl. shipping & customs
Delivery within ca. 7 days
This captivating painting presents a thought-provoking scene featuring a man with a beard, deeply engaged in concentration, as a dog perches playfully on his head. The contrasting colors of the man's attire, particularly the vibrant red of his shirt against the serene greens of the background, create a dynamic visual impact. The interplay of shadows and light accentuates the emotional depth and introspection of the subject, while the abstract nature of the background suggests a connection to nature, evoking a sense of tranquility. The presence of round shapes in the composition adds an element of whimsy, inviting viewers to ponder the relationship between man and beast.
This artwork can serve as a focal point in various interior settings. It would thrive in contemporary living rooms, cozy reading nooks, or even a creative workspace, where it can inspire imaginative thinking. Additionally, it could be a wonderful piece in a pet-friendly environment, celebrating the bond between humans and their furry companions. Consider placing it above a couch, an accent wall in a study, or within an art gallery space for maximum impact.
This portrait is one of the works based on greek and roman mythology. It's from the serie 'amongst gods and ghosts', I combine contemporary images and portraits with subtle references to mythology. In ancient Rome, a balatro was a professional jester or buffoon. Balatrones were paid for their jests, and the tables of the wealthy were generally open to them for the sake of the amusement they afforded.
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lifetime After-Sales support
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signed certificate of authenticity
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30 days return policy




About the artist
Page cover
Sjaak Kooij

Sjaak Kooij

Netherlands
Artist Statement | In my work I use elements of actuality such as social, cultural or political issues that define our times. I take images from media and everyday events – alternated with footage from my personal archive – out of their original context, which creates an exciting interaction between image and content. As a result, the spectator will be confronted with these contemporary topics in an entirely different way. Themes such as anonymity, estrangement, individualism and transience play an important role in the artwork. These themes, occasionally used in an absurd staging, confront the viewer with the ideas and posed questions I’ve put in. Hereby not taking position, but rather allowing the viewer to experience for themselves. The paintings represent a search for boundaries, in which technique and image merge into one whole. Imagining these extremes manifests itself in dynamics and strong contrasts. The work derives partly from the expressionistic method or instead staged as substantive contrast. The different contrasts are not only reflected in content, but can be found in technique and design too. Due to a layered method of working, the painting will create a dialogue with itself during the process. The act of painting itself, working with different materials with paint as a foundation, is an important part of establishing the artwork. The process of adding, removing and repainting, but above all exploring the medium painting, is essential for me as an artist.
Balatro
Stillife 4
stilllife 3
Selene goddess
Hermes as merchant
Muse
Apollo