Squares to Go Exhibition Opening

As an emerging artist, I have been exploring a wide range of media and styles. In this exhibition there is only one theme: the squares represent the fun and spontaneity of creating of my creative growth. Squares to Go Exhibition Opening

As an emerging artist, I have been exploring a wide range of media and styles. In this exhibition there is only one theme: the squares represent the fun and spontaneity of creating of my creative growth.We (my husband and I) have recently moved into our own house. The previous owners left their picture hooks behind. On one particular wall, there were two hooks just above the shelves, which were impossible to remove. Based on where the hooks were situated and the space available, I decided to create an artwork that would fit inside the space. This is where the square idea originated from.
From there I developed a process of priming the canvas, applying vibrant colors, adding highlights and finishing off with dribbled bitumen or thick paint.
Every piece is a little bit like a mood painting - the base colors reflecting my feelings as the artwork unfolds.

This particular design can be hung at four different possibilities, horizontal or vertical, up or down. I happily leave it up to the art collector. In addition to that I am quite keen on any feedback on the artwork I produce and present. Whether it is serenity, energy, an image of your dog or just colors that triggers of your own imagination is for you to decide. Enjoy!

Ilka Pelzer Artist Biography

Ilka was born in Germany in 1972 and has been living in New Zealand since 2000. Originally she worked as an engineer for biomedical technology, but has since started her artistic career. Ilka has studied photography and sculpture and has been attending Pablos Art Studio since May 2002.

Ilka is inspired by artists such as Michael Illingworth, Friedenreich Hundertwasser, M.C. Escher and Andy Warhol. Their stylized work, boldness of color and dare to "be different" is the driving force of her stimulation. Other sources of creative input are pavement poems and Pablos Art Studio workshops. Preferred materials are acrylics, oils and clay. Ilka enjoys shopping art materials in DIY markets.

She has donated several art pieces to the Pablos Art Auction and exhibited in the ROAR! gallery women's exhibition "Artyhose" in January 2003. Her first solo show "Squares and Nudes" at the same gallery was hugely encouraging and gave her enough confidence to continue her artistic career. Recently Ilka took part in a Land Art Project in Waikanae. The results were displayed in the "Outside In" show at ROAR! gallery and won the Wellington Fringe Festival "2004 Highly Commended Visual Arts Award". Together with a friend, she is currently illustrating a cartoon mural of fantasy animals at Ward 27 in Wellington Hospital which soon will be found in the family room.

This is her second solo exhibition.