SOHAM - I AM
SOLO EXHIBIT 2022
These works are about our spiritual connection to the natural world and a deeper reflection on life’s impermanence. Embracing the Wabi-Sabi philosophy, its minimalism and esthetic, I emphasize the passage of time by creating patinas that are rich in both depth and texture. I believe that art holds a crucial place not only in our own personal evolution but on a global scale and has the potential to not only inspire but heal and change our own state of consciousness. Emotions are what trigger change on a deeper level. A better world begins by changing our inner being. I explore the concept of balance and spirituality by holding each piece I create to a high standard of sophistication, using minimalist and balanced compositions. Nature has a definite effect on our equilibrium. Being in tune with it, drawing from its source is essential to me and my greatest source of inspiration. For that reason, I favor the use of materials that are from the earth such as raw pigments and beeswax. My surfaces are intricate, complex and organic, alluding to the Japanese philosophy of the Wabi-Sabi that embraces imperfection and refers to the ever-ending cycle of life. In the end, I wish for my work to convey a sense of peace, balance and beauty.
Soham - I AM
Awakened from shadow to light. I AM. For the shadow to be revealed, light must be. For my eyes to see, light must be. Nature and Art are pure forms of divine expression that connect us all and enable us to transcend life’s impermanence. We gravitate towards it when it shows us a piece of ourselves we recognize. Suddenly, separation becomes a mere illusion.
Origins and Influences
Contemporary abstract artist Brigitte Balbinot grew up Switzerland. She is a full-time practicing artist who now works and lives in South Florida. Having both a Swiss and Italian heritage, her solid footprint in the old continent can be observed in her work. Her work is inspired by the natural world, and spirituality and its universal laws while alluding to life's impermanence.
The Soham Collection - Are comprised of six pieces that were created for Balbinot's Solo Exhibit at Corazon Contemporary in Santa Fe, debut September 2022. These large scale encaustic paintings are more minimalist and monochromatic than prior works, showcasing the depth and beauty of this very particular medium.
Tamas - is a unique piece that embodies the shadow in us all. Its imposing presence will make you stop and stare. With a combination of textured and smooth surface, this piece is very powerful when experienced in person.
The Process
Balbinot works with different mediums such as oil, and the mix of cold and hot beeswax, also known as encaustic. Encaustic is a medium that dates back to the Greco Romans and requires the use of heat to fuse each layer application. Her process is complex and requires many months to reach completion. Techniques such as solvent reduction, the use of organic materials and aggregates, such as dry pigments or marble dust, are mixed directly with the paint, allowing her to create rich and vibrant patinas of textures and colors. The crafting of these intricate and complex surfaces emphasizes the physicality of the material.
Balbinot is self-taught. Over the years she has been perfecting her skills through numerous workshops, classes, and mentorships, which has resulted in an ongoing progression of her work. She has collaborated on residential and commercial commissions in Canada and in the United States and has collectors in both North America and Europe. Currently the artist shows her work in national galleries and selected curated exhibits.
