Exploring the timeless beauty of oxidation, Sanne Terweij (Amsterdam, 1984) presents artworks at numerous fairs and exhibitions, such as currently at Maison & Objet, that fuse classic and contemporary elements, embracing color and craftsmanship using time-tested materials in a new and refreshing way..
With her colorful and captivating wall objects, Terweij presents a unique form of design, alchemistically transforming metals into timeless pieces of art that harmoniously blend geometric shapes and the organic movement of oxides.
In her studio, she experiments with various chemical processes and artistic interventions, bringing metals like copper and brass to life while exploring the oxidative properties of her materials. Oxidation is an unpredictable process and is only partially controllable. Navigating these paths leads her on a constant quest for balance; a journey of accepting what is, and changing what she deems necessary. This creative chemistry, which unfolds across the hundreds of hand-cut shapes that make up her works, ensures that no two pieces are ever the same.
Terweij seeks out the treasures within her materials—in color, texture, and reflection. Transition is a common thread, and her process reveals her deep love for old-fashioned craftsmanship. She finds that the small imperfections you see when something is handmade truly give each piece its own character. Her preference for unconventional materials and often bold use of color make for unique and recognizable pieces.
Her artistic journey, rooted in creative entrepreneurship for film and hospitality, led her to specialize in the art of aging and patina techniques. Her ability to harness the unpredictable, infusing it with intention and skill, results in layered oxidation landscapes that encapsulate the ephemeral beauty of the world around us. The surfaces of her works reflect and shimmer under the influence of light and the viewer's changing perspective, offering an enchanting visual experience that transcends time.
“By capturing the enigmatic beauty that nature offers us, I seek to create works of art that encourage us to appreciate the small moments we too often take for granted.”
While some objects increase in value with age, other aging processes are considered a loss of value. The oxidation process, more often considered undesirable and depreciative, is used here to achieve the exact opposite: to add unique value and character.
Beauty and value are two elements that can evolve and change over time, and they are often linked. At first glance, the brushed copper pieces appear shiny and untouched, but upon closer inspection, one can also observe the traces that time has left on them; scratches and dents that do not detract from their beauty, but rather give them a unique character. Terweij's artworks invite viewers to contemplate the transience of beauty and to look beyond the first glance.
Her (custom-made) wall objects have already found their way into the homes of collectors, designers, and galleries worldwide, and she recently received the Rising Talent Award from Maison et Objet (September 2022), cementing her status as an artist to watch.
About oxidation
Metal oxidation is a chemical phenomenon that occurs when metals come into contact with oxygen in the air or water. Oxygen is a reagent that captures electrons from metal atoms and forms compounds called metal oxides. Depending on the nature of the metal, oxidation can have different consequences on its physical and chemical properties.
Some metals, such as iron, undergo oxidation, which leads to corrosion. The iron becomes covered with a layer of rust, which is a reddish-colored hydrated iron oxide. Rust is a brittle, porous material that does not protect the metal and makes it more brittle. Corrosion of iron can be accelerated by the presence of water, carbon dioxide, or dissolved salts.
Other metals, such as copper, zinc, or aluminum, undergo oxidation, which leads to passivation. These metals become covered with a very thin and compact oxide layer, which insulates the metal from oxygen and prevents corrosion. The oxide layer can have a different color than the metal, such as verdigris for copper or matte white for aluminum.
Finally, some metals, such as gold or platinum, are not very reactive to oxygen and hardly oxidize at all. These metals are called noble or precious metals because they retain their luster and purity over time. Silver is a special case because it oxidizes upon contact with air, forming a black layer of silver oxide, but this layer stops corrosion and can be easily removed.
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sanneterweij/ Website https://www.sanneterweij.com
André Tirlet
