Delft blue, denim and the moon as inspiration
“My art aims at keeping in touch with the past, while reflecting its image in the present. Using basic techniques, presented in a modern way, my work is an attempt to connect a variety of mythologies with new discoveries, to show the world as a whole with a mix of symbols”. This is Valentin Bakardjiev, the Bulgarian artist based in Amsterdam, creator of Le Grand Bleu.
Ancient techniques of making paint, pigments and inks that Valentin makes by himself; delft blue and denim, two typical characteristics of the capital of the Netherlands; the mystery of the moon: these are the main sources of inspiration for his works.
But Valentin made one step further and explores the beginning of denim, from the old patched Japanese workers overcoats used during the Middle Ages in order to rediscover denim through art and put it in new context of sustainability and art. And from Japan comes also the use of shibori on calligraphy paper like one big piece of paper.
However, Le Grand Blue means charity as well: in June it will make a small contribution to the Amsterdam Dinner Event, an annual gala supporting the fight with AIDS. Here, some of Valentin Bakardjiev’s paintings will be provided for fundraising. “I believe this is the best way to finish the cycle of the blue project – from inspiration to giving back. This is the moon cycle in my art. This is Le Grand Bleu”, Mr. Bakardjiev commented.
Julie Parfaits
