Rikka Horn 01.02.1971 Tallinn, Estonia.
 

Lives and works in Groningen (The Netherlands).

Paintings by Rikka Horn evoke numerous associations and feelings. They remind us of nature's elements. By looking at them, we experience water, sky, light, colour and illusion. Are we looking at a painting or are we looking at something else?

The impact of a Rikka Horn painting is a result of a long and elaborate process. First coloured pencil drawings are made onto panels of MDF or wood. These drawings are then covered with up to about thirty coats of clear varnish and pure colourpigments. This technique provides the painting with a double effect. The painting appears a bottomless pit of colour and subtle tones. At the same time the surface of the painting mirrors its surroundings as well. These two qualities meet and merge on the skin of the painting.

Arranging a painting by Rikka Horn in space is quite an adventure. Front view, side view, daylight, artificial light, etc. determine the appearance of the painting.

A painting by Rikka Horn is an autonomous object rather than a conventional painting, never a reproduction or impression of nature. To enhance this feature, Rikka Horn uses panels with softened corners instead of the usual squares and rectangles. When free drawn organic shapes are used, the paintings become large colourful pebbles in space.

Stools, chairs and tables are well suited to become a Rikka Horn work of art. These objects are often custom-made. Although functional, they are rarely used. They are very much appreciated as autonomous colourful art objects in space.

Recently Rikka Horn has started making 'NOONU'S'. These small colourful felt objects, contain a bar of soap, thus combining art with function, one of Rikka Horn's hallmarks. The felt is handmade and dyed in beautiful colours. The art of felt making and dying has also resulted in a few autonomous wall and floor coverings (without soap).

Rikka Horn's clever use of form and colour in all her works, (also charcoal drawing and water colour), makes her a follower of Art being the culmination of a creative process instead of Art being a picture of plan put into effect.

Jacob van der Veen

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