Struikelblok’s story
(Barbados Today) It is said the eyes are the windows to the soul but Surinamese artist, George Struikelblok bares his soul on his canvas.
Struikelblok boldly told his truth at a private viewing of his exhibition UnSeen which was recently held at the Queen’s Park Gallery. His first solo exhibition in Barbados explored the depths of Life & Death and the impact it has had on Struikelblok from when he started his career more than 30 years ago.
The theme Life & Death depicts the low and high points of Struikelblok’s life. It is a theme that has shaped and influenced his entire career. His paintings reflected his soul-searching journey from dark, depressed, desolate tones during his studies in Jamaica to the explosion of colour he has become known for in the latter part of his career. His work is abstract, emotional and impulsive.
UnSeen explored Struikelblok’s familial ties – the death of his father at a young age; the loneliness of his mother who lost her husband and had been disowned by her family; meeting his grandmother for the first time as an adult; the death of his grandmother shortly after meeting her; his life as a father of three.
Read more at: Barbados Today