VIBRANT EXPRESSIONS

Under the theme VIBRANT EXPRESSIONS, 12 artists from across Germany will showcase two of their works each at the GRACE DENKER GALLERY starting March 28, 2025, offering a glimpse into their creations and sparking interest for more. The diverse methods, ideas, and concepts provide a unique and inspiring experience.

Learn more about the exhibitors in the following article and gain insight into their artistic endeavors and concepts.

The following artists participated in the interview: Annette Murphy, Florian Wörrle, Gillette Lilienthal, Katharina Hindes, Marika Fleck, Marzena Brandt, Nassim Aslani, Siegmar Ahlvers, Sybille Stein, Teodora Dumitrache, Torsten Zöllner, and Vanessa Vilchis.

Register for the vernissage at: https://www.artcraftliving.com/event-list

Annette Murphy

Exploring the Artistic World of Annette Murphy

Annette Murphy's artistic journey is a vibrant tapestry woven from the everyday moments of life. Her inspiration stems from a myriad of sources—a delicate spring flower, a stroll through the Hamburg harbor, a poignant face, or the nostalgic scent of mimosas reminiscent of her childhood in Italy. Each piece begins with a moment of recognition, where she feels compelled to capture the essence of her inspiration through sketches and notes, eventually transforming these into vivid works of art.

Murphy's current collection is a testament to her belief that the process of creation is as significant as the final piece. Her painting "The Sleepwalker" exemplifies this philosophy. Born from a sleepless night, the artwork captures the essence of sleep through an abstract lens. She employed an experimental technique, using a large bottle with a spray nozzle to outline the sleepwalker, ultimately adding a 19th-century nightcap to complete the piece. The result is a positive reflection on the theme of sleepwalking.

Looking to the future, Murphy envisions her work evolving across four main themes: vibrant abstract paintings, semi-abstract portraits, dynamic body figures, and floral still lifes. Her passion for innovation drives her to explore new techniques, particularly in mixed media, combining acrylics, inks, and texture pastes to create layers of light and depth. A current challenge she embraces is creating a painting using only one color, a project that pushes her creative boundaries. She draws inspiration from Japanese woodcuts and Italian Renaissance artists, infusing these influences into her work.

Murphy's art is a profound form of meditation, offering a retreat from the noise of everyday life. Her paintings are emotional love letters to the beauty of life, appealing to the viewer's emotional intelligence. She believes that emotions are meant to connect us, and if her art evokes feelings in the viewer, she considers it a success.

Join us in experiencing Annette Murphy's exhibition—a celebration of life's beauty through color, emotion, and inspiration.

Florian Wörrle

Exploring the Artistic Vision of Florian Wörrle

Florian Wörrle's artistic journey is a profound exploration of nature's inspiration, transcending direct semantic interpretation. His work thrives on analogies, structures, and metaphors, creating a delicate balance between autonomous imagery and an illusion of referentiality. This unique approach results in paradoxical creations that are both visually and tactilely captivating.

His artistic process is a dance between spontaneous, experimental material engagement and meticulous refinement. This duality births intriguing forms that draw viewers in with their vibrant colors and textures. Wörrle's current collection emphasizes the physical presence of art as a counterpoint to digital dematerialization. By redefining the relationship between material and visual representation, his works break away from traditional canvas forms, evolving into color objects that assert their presence in space and engage viewers directly.

Wörrle's art is an act of freedom and childlike discovery, resisting the overwhelming influence of digital media and virtual realms. Looking to the future, he aims to delve deeper into the fundamental aspects of visual perception and materiality. His fusion of color objects and material images challenges both the familiar and the questioning, playing with canonical visual languages and exposing clichés. This exploration of image theory and perception in our increasingly digitized world remains a thrilling prospect for him.

Through his art, Wörrle conveys the pleasure principle, inviting viewers to indulge in a sensory experience. His works exude an unrestrained joy in color, material, and creativity, encouraging audiences to savor an artistic experience that engages multiple senses. The pieces stand in defiance of contemporary trends towards dematerialization, emphasizing the undeniable presence of the physical.

Wörrle's exhibition offers a celebration of sensory delight, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the tangible beauty of art that speaks to the body and soul.

Gillette Lilienthal

Gillette Lilienthal knew long before graduating from high school that she wanted to become a painter. It wasn't a conscious decision for her, but rather a deep inner conviction that has sustained her through all the challenges of society. She has been working as a freelance artist since 1999 and has taught adults and children in her own art school for over a decade. After many commissions, she is now ready to give free rein to her own artistic vision.

Her current style features portraits on neon orange-pink backgrounds and represents an extroverted, silent outcry from an introverted artist. The black-and-white depictions of the people are simple and unfussy. Gillette hopes that the people depicted in the portraits enjoy themselves and that they are captured in beautiful moments of their lives.

In her work, she prefers oil paints, while she mostly uses acrylic for the grounds. Oil allows her to work deeply into a painting over longer periods of time. She is particularly creative in applying oil paints using old credit cards, which she cuts to size as desired to achieve various textures and effects.

She is enthusiastic about the neon-primed backgrounds of her current works, as their striking presence makes them almost intrusive. The black-and-white portraits depict reality: "They're all 'just' people like you and me." Gillette sees herself in each of these images. Her silently loud and bright portraits embody a part of herself; she may seem shrill, but in reality, she is more complex. She hopes to have captured the people she portrays in a moment of well-being and authenticity, in which they were able to be completely themselves.

Katharina Hindes

The Art of Emotions: Katharina Hindes' Journey Through Resistance and Transformation.

Katharina Hindes is an artist whose work is deeply rooted in the exploration of emotions and personal experiences. Her creative process is inspired by the myriad of images and forms that a single emotion can take. She immerses herself in this process, allowing the emotions to guide her in crafting images that capture their essence.

In her current collection, Hindes presents works such as "Sieger" and "Soil," which, although seemingly different, both delve into themes of resistance and transformation. "Sieger" employs the symbol of the poppy flower, representing resilience and the indomitable will to live. In contrast, "Soil" is more fluid, illustrating the destructive yet fertile nature of change, embodying chaos that paves the way for new beginnings. The challenge for Hindes was to shape these raw emotions into forms that resonate not only personally but universally.

Looking to the future, Hindes is drawn to the theme of the soul's freedom, exploring spirituality not in a religious sense, but as a deeper investigation into intuition, energy, and the unseen forces around us. She is intrigued by the fusion of classical elements with experimental, almost chaotic structures, embracing contrasts such as light and dark, hardness and softness, permanence and transience.

Through her art, Hindes hopes that viewers will find their own narratives. Whether it's the courage embodied in "Sieger" or the transformative chaos of "Soil," she aspires for her work to resonate on a personal level, evoking emotions and stories that may not yet have words. Her art is meant to be felt, to strike a chord within, and to bring forth the unspoken.

Marika Fleck

Marika Fleck: A Symphony of Colors and Forms

Marika Fleck is an artist whose work is a vibrant celebration of newness and positivity. Her artistic journey is fueled by the allure of new motifs, colors, techniques, and materials, all of which ignite her curiosity and drive her creative process. Central to her art is the concept of positive moods, which she finds in nature, landscapes, light, people, and the interplay of colors and shapes. Her creations are a fusion of positive energy and mood, intertwined with ever-evolving color combinations and innovative techniques.

Fleck's latest collection, "Mit Farben und Formen" ("With Colors and Forms"), set to be showcased in an exhibition at the end of March, delves into the exploration of harmonious color gradients versus contrasting hues, and the choice between geometric and organic forms. The collection challenges the boundaries of two- and three-dimensional effects, beginning with the simplicity of a line and a palette of colors. The creative process is dynamic and unpredictable, often requiring adjustments to meet Fleck's high standards.

Having previously explored the use of marble dust and strong textures, Fleck is revisiting this path to create abstracted landscapes with diverse structures and materials that exude positivity. Simultaneously, she is honing her technique in depicting water and waves, aiming to capture their essence more vividly.

Marika Fleck draws inspiration from the positive energy that surrounds us in the world. Her art is a conduit for this positivity, intended to awaken a sense of beauty, wonder, and vitality in the viewer. Through her work, Fleck invites the audience to experience the freedom that creativity brings, encouraging them to embrace the joy and liveliness inherent in her art.

Marzena Brandt

Marzena Brandt: Capturing the Soul of Nature and Identity Through Photographic Art

Marzena Brandt, originally from Poland, has made her home in the vibrant city of Hamburg, where she has dedicated her artistic journey to the realm of photography, specifically focusing on photographic art. Her work aims to convey stories, moments, or emotions to the viewer, often through the lens of abstraction. Despite the abstract nature of her pieces, they maintain a strong connection to reality, offering a unique perspective that invites reflection and introspection.

One of Marzena's great passions is exploring "Lost Places," which serve as witnesses of the past and evoke a mystical aura. Her fascination with these forgotten spaces is intertwined with her exploration of identity and nature, themes that have become central to her work.

In a world marked by wars, division, rapid change, and destruction, Marzena's pieces "Frühlingskuss" (Spring Kiss) and "Herbststimmung" (Autumn Mood) remind us of the vital importance of nature as a source of strength and harmony. Through her art, she emphasizes the necessity of living in balance with nature, recognizing that we are an integral part of it, yet must be mindful not to alter it excessively.

Marzena Brandt's future works will continue to delve into these themes, aiming to resonate with the viewer's soul and provoke thought. Her current message is a call to appreciate and protect the natural world, encouraging us to find solace and inspiration in its beauty.

Nassim Aslani

Nassim Aslani: A Journey Through Art and Reflection

Inspiration and Artistic Process:

Nassim Aslani is a visionary artist who finds inspiration in thematic exploration. She often creates her artwork in series, allowing her to delve deeply into a chosen theme and express it through her paintings. This methodical approach enables her to translate her inspirations into cohesive and thought-provoking collections.

Current Collection: "Pause”:

Aslani's latest series, titled "Pause," invites viewers to reflect on the importance of taking breaks in our daily lives. Despite being a common necessity, the concept of pausing is rarely explored in the realm of painting. Aslani faced no significant challenges in creating this series; instead, she focused on capturing the essence of those moments of pause and translating them onto canvas.

Future Directions:

Looking ahead, Aslani is preparing to explore new themes and techniques, although she remains secretive about the specifics. Her commitment to evolving her work suggests a continuous journey of artistic growth and exploration.

Message and Emotions:

Through her art, Aslani hopes to convey a message of tranquility and mindfulness. She encourages viewers to step away from stress and embrace a peaceful perspective on life. Her work serves as a gentle reminder to enjoy life's moments with calmness and appreciation.

Nassim Aslani's art is a testament to the power of thematic exploration and the impact of art on our emotional well-being. Her ability to transform everyday concepts into profound visual narratives makes her a unique voice in the contemporary art scene.

Siegmar Ahlvers

Siegmar Ahlvers: An Artistic View from Above

Siegmar Ahlvers, a versatile artist with a background in engineering, combines meticulous attention to detail with a broad perspective in his work. He describes himself as a generalist, constantly exploring and developing new genres and fields. In 2025, his artistic journey has literally taken him to new heights, shifting his "view from above" from Earth into space. Inspired by satellite images, Ahlvers creates fascinating artworks that depict the Earth from a satellite's perspective. These pieces, often in true or false colors, illustrate physical, chemical, biological, and climatic phenomena, providing a rich source of inspiration for his abstract creations.

Ahlvers' current collection, "Earth Top View," consists of artworks inspired by satellite images. Each piece is unique and carries a sequential number, with some also depicting specific regions of the Earth. The challenge Ahlvers faced in this series was to represent the Earth's surface structures using acrylic paints. He experimented with various techniques, including applying colors directly from the tube or with a spatula and using a silicone brush. These techniques create textured structures, making the outcome unpredictable and exciting.

Ahlvers plans to photograph his small "Earth Top View" pieces and offer them as large-format art prints to enhance their textured effect. Additionally, he is interested in using a Lidar sensor to capture 3D images of his textured works and transform them into animated artworks or videos. These innovative approaches demonstrate Ahlvers' ongoing commitment to exploring new techniques and evolving his art.

Through his works, Ahlvers aims to inspire viewers to discover the Earth as a fascinating and mysterious planet. His "Earth Top View" series is intended to spark curiosity and highlight the beauty and mysteries of our planet. Ahlvers hopes that viewers will be inspired to see the Earth from a new perspective and enjoy the enigmatic aspects through the calm contemplation of his artworks.

Sybille Stein

Moments of Joy: Capturing Everyday Life with Sybille Stein

Sybille Stein is an artist who draws inspiration from everyday moments and thoughts, incorporating them into her work with color, composition, and a touch of humor. Her art exudes joy and lightness, which is especially evident in her current collection inspired by the stories and everyday situations of women. Stein is fascinated by the often-overlooked moments in women's lives and seeks to bring these to the canvas with vibrant colors and a warm atmosphere.

Sybille Stein's creative process is full of surprises, particularly when experimenting with color combinations, where she continually discovers new harmonies and exciting contrasts. The biggest challenge lies in finding the right balance between wit, charm, expression, and color play, making the creative process all the more thrilling.

In the future, Stein plans to further develop her series on women and refine the expressive power of her works to convey emotions more precisely. At the same time, she is drawn to abstract painting, a new field of experimentation that allows her to explore her creative language in a freer manner.

With her works, Sybille Stein hopes to bring a smile to viewers' faces and fill them with positive energy. Her art aims to capture small everyday moments with humor and charm, leaving a lasting impression. Stein wants to convey lightness and joy—art that is not only seen but also felt.

Teodora Paula Dumitrache

Teodora Dumitrache is an artist whose work is deeply rooted in the exploration of emotions and the spontaneous sparks of inspiration that arise from them. Without a single defined source of inspiration, Teodora finds herself moved by a variety of experiences, some of which touch her profoundly, while others less so. It is the intensity of certain feelings that often drives her creative process, leading to sudden ideas and concepts that she diligently translates into form and color.

Her latest collection, "Lustige Tiere" (Funny Animals), emerged from a unique challenge. A collector approached her with a request to paint colorful animals in a specific style, including his beloved dog. This challenge gave birth to a series of vibrant, expressive paintings that have since expanded into a larger, ongoing collection. Those who have acquired these works often express how the images bring joy and a smile to their faces, a sentiment Teodora believes is universally needed.

Teodora is a lifelong learner, driven by curiosity and a love for challenges. She continuously evolves her craft, confident that her journey is far from over. This openness to experimentation and creation paves the way for new collections and innovative artistic expressions.

Her aspiration is for viewers of her work to discover joy and a rich tapestry of colors. Teodora is convinced that those who appreciate one of her pieces will likely be drawn to explore more of her unique creations, each a testament to her distinctive artistic vision.

Torsten Zöllner

Torsten Zöllner: A Visionary in Nature Photography

Torsten Zöllner's journey into the world of photography began with his early creative inclinations, driven by a desire to see the world through a unique lens. For Zöllner, photography is not just a technique but a powerful medium of expression. His artistic pursuit is deeply rooted in nature, reflecting his belief that he is intrinsically connected to it and cannot exist without it. This connection fuels his motivation to preserve and protect the natural world, which he considers a precious treasure.

Zöllner's approach to photography is characterized by his use of manual techniques, allowing him to play with light and shadow to capture the essence of fleeting moments. His artistic process is imbued with a sense of euphoria and anticipation, as each captured moment becomes a stepping stone in his creative projects.

In his acclaimed series "Natural Areas," Zöllner redefines natural spaces by combining multiple settings and scenes into a cohesive whole. This innovative approach results in images where colors, light, and shadows blend seamlessly, inviting viewers to experience nature in a new light. Through his artistic lens, Zöllner aims to bring nature closer to the observer, fostering awareness and appreciation for its beauty and fragility.

His work is both powerful and imaginative, encouraging personal interpretation and engagement. Zöllner's photography not only captures the splendor of nature but also challenges viewers to see beyond the surface, inspiring a deeper connection with the world around them.

Vanessa Vilchis | Vibrant Expressions Exhibition

Vanessa Vilchis: A Journey Through Art and Emotion

Vanessa Vilchis is an artist whose work is deeply personal and evocative, drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources. Her artistic process is a dynamic journey, where each piece of art communicates its own needs, guiding her through decisions on color, form, and new elements. This process is not static; it evolves as the artwork progresses, sometimes maintaining the original idea or transforming it in unexpected ways.

In her recent collection, Vilchis embarked on a unique artistic journey, particularly with her piece "The Visit." Unlike her previous works, this piece demanded a focus on the underlying concept rather than just the figurative elements. The challenge lay in depicting a human skeleton from a specific angle and integrating it with other elements like butterflies, across two canvases. This duality invites viewers to imagine the different planes and dimensions where these figures exist.

Her self-portrait, begun in 2022, is another testament to her evolving process. It serves as a medium for self-reflection, allowing Vilchis to explore her physical and psychological self.

Looking to the future, Vilchis is excited about experimenting with new themes and techniques. She plans to continue exploring the human body, but with a fresh perspective that diverges from her past interpretations.

In her exhibition, Vilchis hopes to evoke a deep emotional response from viewers. "The Visit" is inspired by Mexico's Day of the Dead, a celebration of life and death that honors departed loved ones. This painting captures the essence of this tradition, depicting a deceased person's visit to the living world, symbolized by two butterflies representing souls. The piece is a heartfelt tribute to Vilchis's personal history, with the skull representing her late mother and the butterflies symbolizing her sister and herself.

Through her work, Vilchis invites viewers to embrace the concept of death not as an end, but as a celebration of life and continuity. Her art encourages reflection on the cyclical nature of existence and the enduring bonds between the living and the departed.

---

Duration of the exhibition: 28.03.2025 to 10.07.2025

Location: GRACE DENKER GALLERY, Hammerbrookstraße 93, 20097 Hamburg.

Opening: March 28, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.

---