Dutch artist appeals for conservation through her artworks

REALISING that more and more green spaces are disappearing in Kuala Lumpur, Dutch artist Ardy Timmer was moved to convey her frustration and hopes for the future through art.

In her third exhibition at Ashley’s by Living Food in Bangsar, titled Back to Nature, Timmer said she was prompted to venture from figurative works to flowers and landscapes after realising there were less green spaces in the city.

“I had to challenge myself on a personal and artistic level and I felt the need to start exploring landscape painting as that was what I needed at that point in my life.

“I started painting forest scenes in which I wanted to take refuge, especially in times when I did not have the time to go into nature to refuel and release the madness of our daily lives.

“This allowed me to express my serious concern regarding the state of our earth and how we treat her. I started painting nature landscapes to be one with nature.

Timmer says her acrylic on canvas artwork titled ‘Rose’ is a representation of when she found her passion in art.

“My work can be seen as an appeal to the viewer that it is time to show more respect for nature,” said 53-year-old Timmer.

She added that the 11 acrylic on canvas pieces in her exhibition are the highlight of two years work.

Apart from painting, Timmer also established the Rasa Art Appreciation Group, which served as a social gathering for its dozen-odd members to gain appreciation for art and support the Malaysian and Asian art scene.

“We have monthly gatherings to view art exhibitions or visit studios of artists. Separately, I organise small group art classes with various Malaysian and foreign artists,” she said.

Back to Nature is being held until Oct 3 at Ashley’s by Living Food, 11, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.

Another artwork by Timmer, titled ‘Road to Redemption’. — Photos by AZMAN GHANI