The Doorway Series

Throughout my life, I've been endlessly captivated by doorways. They possess a mystique all their own, for they serve as the initial gateway to a space and a glimpse into the lives of those who dwell within. A doorway symbolises the dividing line between the interior and the exterior, between safety and society, between the concept of "home" and the stark reality of homelessness. In essence, doorways are the opening and closing lines of the grand narrative of a space.

Delving into the etymology of the word "doorway," we discover a rich history. Its roots can be traced back to "duru weg," which translates to a "movable barrier on the course of life." This etymological insight hints at the profound significance of doorways as more than just physical structures but as symbolic thresholds that shape our experiences and journeys through life.

This series originated as an experiment delving into the realm of monochromatic painting, driven by the curiosity of exploring the possibilities within a severely limited colour palette. The primary objective was to uncover the narrative potential that could be told using just one solitary hue. The medium of choice, watercolour, emerged as the perfect conduit for this endeavour, owing to its translucent qualities that deftly capture the nuanced subtleties of colour.

Confining myself to a singular hue compelled me to plumb the depths of that very colour, relentlessly pushing its boundaries across a spectrum of shades, tones, and textures. The challenge lay in the preservation of intricate details within each piece.

Further intensifying this challenge was the choice to work on a miniature scale. Each artwork measures a mere 4x4 cm, rendering each brushstroke significant. This deliberate limitation makes you consider the importance of each element in the painting.

This project not only served as an exercise in practicing tone and shading but also as a study in the art of evoking emotion. Colour theory elucidates the profound emotional impact that colours wield, with each hue carrying its own unique significance, personalised by individual perception. Every colour bears a dual nature, encompassing both positive and negative connotations. For instance, red evokes sentiments of love and desire as well as violence and bloodshed, while blue elicits feelings of tranquillity and melancholy. Meanwhile, green symbolises life, yet can also evoke notions of poison and decay.

This series remains a work in progress, a perpetual experiment and playground for artistic exploration. The journey continues, with plans to venture into new and diverse colour palettes in the future. Your feedback and suggestions for future colour themes are enthusiastically welcomed and appreciated. Stay tuned for more!