Step into the enchanting world of “Light and Shadow”

Light and Shadow: The Art of Chiaroscuro

Step into the enchanting world of “Light and Shadow,” a unique joint exhibition by photographer Ursula van de Bunte and portrait painter André Romijn. From November 30, 2024, to January 26, 2025, you can enjoy a visual spectacle in the late-Gothic chapel of the Cellebroeders monastery, known for centuries as the ‘English Church’ in Middelburg, celebrating the masterful technique of Chiaroscuro, inspired by the style of the Italian painter Caravaggio (1571-1610).

Strong contrasts

Chiaroscuro, or clair-obscur, is an art technique that revolves around the use of strong contrasts between light and dark to emphasize forms and depth. This style, which originated in the work of Caravaggio, was further developed by 17^th-century Dutch painters such as Hendrick ter Brugghen, Dirck van Baburen, and Gerrit van Honthorst. In “Light and Shadow,” Ursula van de Bunte and André Romijn explore this classic technique through modern photography and painting.

Capturing emotions

Photographer Ursula van de Bunte is known for her talent for capturing emotions and stories through her lens; Ursula van de Bunte brings a modern interpretation of Chiaroscuro to the exhibition. Her photographs play with shadows and light to reveal the essence of her subjects, offering a deep and personal experience with every image. Visit her website here for a preview of her work.

Portrait painter André Romijn combines classic techniques with modern themes. His use of light and shadow in portraits evokes the intense emotions so characteristic of Caravaggio’s works. Romijn’s paintings are both timeless and contemporary, making them a perfect fit for the theme of this exhibition.

Profound connection

Photography and painting may seem like different media, but they share a profound connection in their use of light and shadow to tell stories and convey emotions. In this exhibition:

Photography: Ursula van de Bunte uses light to capture the essence of her subjects, with shadows and contrasts enhancing the emotions and stories in her photographs.

Painting: André Romijn brings life to his portraits with oil paint and brush, utilizing the nuances of light and dark to create depth and intensity.

Both art forms use the Chiaroscuro technique to achieve a dramatic effect, complementing and reinforcing each other in this joint exhibition. Visitors will see how both the lens and the brush apply the same principles to create impressive visual stories.

Visit and Experience

Do not miss this unique opportunity to experience the beautiful symbiosis of photography and painting in the historical setting of the English Church. “Light and Shadow: The Art of Chiaroscuro” promises to be a visually rich experience that you will not soon forget.

Opening hours: every Friday and Saturday afternoon from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM