Joy Machine and Vertical Gallery proudly present their collaborative exhibition, Wanderland by Collin van der Sluijs. This exhibit, marking the artist’s sixth solo showcase in Chicago, celebrates over a decade in partnership with Vertical Gallery and debuts at Joy Machine.
Wanderland unveils a new collection crafted over two years. It features large mixed-media paintings, delicate drawings, and skate decks adorned with van der Sluijs’ signature birds. The artwork captures both the grand and the ordinary, emphasizing themes of loss, grief, and the healing power of nature.
Explore another artist’s connection to nature in Raija Jokinen’s artistry, where nature’s patterns are fused with human anatomy for intriguing visual stories.
The name Wanderland combines ‘wander’ and ‘wonderland,’ reflecting van der Sluijs’ dedication to creating a vast, imaginative ecosystem. His work blends oil paint, acrylic, and watercolor, depicting chaotic yet dynamic still lifes and figures. Reflecting his Dutch roots and street art background, the art includes hazy florals and playful symbols. Patrick Hull, owner and curator at Vertical, notes, “Collin’s style blends classical painting with graffiti and illustration, making it uniquely modern.”
Delve into blending classical and modern styles with Theo Jansen’s Strandbeests, where kinetic sculptures explore life and movement through art and engineering.
Van der Sluijs’ creative process involves experimentation and adaptation, often working on pieces for years. He embraces mistakes as part of his journey, turning paintings to the wall to gain fresh perspectives. Wanderland represents both exploration of the inner self and a dive into the unknown.
Amid pandemic challenges, Wanderland emerges with hope. An ankle injury forced van der Sluijs to adapt by painting horizontally, leading to new creative approaches. Additionally, outdoor painting sessions offered solace as he processed personal grief, following a friend’s passing. “These personal narratives form the exhibit’s context,” van der Sluijs says.
To celebrate their longstanding collaboration, Vertical Gallery released a book titled Wanderland: 1991-2026, capturing van der Sluijs’ journey as an artist alongside his personal life milestones.
The exhibition runs from July 10 to August 22, with an opening reception on July 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. The artist will be present to greet attendees.
Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of Wanderland exhibit?
The exhibition celebrates themes of loss, grief, and the healing power of nature.
How did Collin van der Sluijs adapt after his injury?
An ankle injury forced van der Sluijs to adapt by painting horizontally, which led to new creative approaches.
What materials does Collin van der Sluijs use in his artwork?
His work blends oil paint, acrylic, and watercolor, depicting chaotic yet dynamic still lifes and figures.