Featured Artist Delia Vilhelm

Romanian artist Delia Vilhelm presents a fascinating collection of complex and symbolic oil paintings. See more of her portfolio on her website.

 

 

I come from a charming mining town nestled in the heart of Romania, situated in the enchanting region of Transylvania. The rugged landscapes and diverse cultural tapestry of the area have played a pivotal role in shaping my early artistic sensibilities.

 

 

Transylvania, with its rich cultural heritage, is a melting pot of Romanian, Hungarian, Saxon, and Roma traditions, resulting in a unique fusion of folklore, architecture, and cuisine. The region is renowned for its medieval castles, fortified churches, and picturesque views.

 

 

They all bear witness to the enduring legacy of the diverse communities that have contributed to Transylvania’s cultural identity over the years. From the Dracula myth to vibrant festivals, Transylvania stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay of cultures that has defined its captivating heritage.

 

 

In 1990, I embarked on a transformative journey, establishing a new home in the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia.

 

 

Fueled by my passion for the arts, I pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree at the esteemed National Art School in Sydney, specializing in painting. This educational journey allowed me to seamlessly blend my Romanian heritage with the diverse artistic influences of Australia, resulting in a distinctive and captivating body of work.

 

 

To structure my oil paintings, I employ collage. The inclination towards remixing and revision gives rise to a fresh artistic language, a fusion of the real and abstract. This approach pays homage to Dada. It embraces the representation of disparate ideas, while also drawing inspiration from Rococo ornamentation, celebrating intricate decorative patterns in art. Magazine clippings and flyers serve as the primary materials for my works on paper.

 

 

Each piece undergoes a process of cutting and disassembling, sourced from recognizable origins, ultimately converging to create something entirely new. My art takes a non-figurative form, distinguishing itself from abstract shapes by originating from clear shapes and ideas.

 

 

The forms in my abstract paintings draw inspiration from the silhouettes of both real and imagined people. I aim to create a playful space for my viewers to inhabit, where playfulness underlies pure life enjoyment and a creative drive. This invites the viewer to be fully present and open to experiencing the world, establishing new patterns and combining actions and thoughts in novel ways.

 

 

My art challenges traditional norms—it transcends being a mere amalgamation of arbitrary shapes. Instead, it constitutes a nuanced reinterpretation of explicit forms and concepts. I extend an invitation to explore my creations, unravelling the covert symbols and narratives concealed within them.

 

Delia Vilhelm invites you to follow on Instagram and LinkedIn.

 

 

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