Isabelle Scheltjens: The Delicacy of Glass

FORTE DEI MARMI
We are thrilled to announce that we have started a collaboration with Isabelle Scheltjens, an acclaimed Belgian artist who has mastered the fusion of glass to create mesmerizing portraits. With a passion for art since her youth, Isabelle has developed a unique technique that showcases her expertise in color theory and glass-fusing. She has honed her craft to produce stunning portraits that capture the essence of her subjects with vibrant hues and optical effects.
 

The Artistic Journey: From SISA to Glass Fusion Mastery

Isabelle Scheltjens is a talented artist whose passion for creativity led her to pursue formal education at SISA the Antwerp City Institute for Decorative Arts and Crafts. With a strong foundation in decorative arts and crafts and inspired by her husband, Scheltjens discovered her affinity for glass as a medium for self-expression.

Inspired by her husband's glass designs, she delved into the world of glass fusion, seeking to create her own artistic vision.Through years of intense practice and experimentation, she developed a unique technique that involves melting pieces of glass in various colors, sizes, and textures at high temperatures. This meticulous process allows her to harness the expressive power of glass, resulting in breathtaking artworks. The glass pieces she utilizes are indeed the result of combining multiple tiles of colorful shades, giving rise to unique and evocative chromatic nuances and reflections. When juxtaposed, these glass tiles create mesmerizing effects of light and transparency that have an incredible optical impact.

 

The Woman as Subject: Portraits Transformed by Distance and Perception

Isabelle Scheltjens' portraits captivate viewers with their depth and emotion, particularly when observed from different distances. From afar, the vibrant pieces of fused glass converge to form precise and dramatic images. However, a closer look reveals an abstract composition reminiscent of pointillist paintings, engaging the viewer's imagination and creating a fascinating interplay of colors and shapes. According to Isabelle, the distance allows for a better appreciation of the beauty captured in the depicted female faces. It is predominantly celebrities who serve as subjects of interest for the artist, reminiscent of the works found in Pop Art.

 

With her distinct technique, Isabelle brings portraits to life, infusing them with captivating colors and optical effects. From her artistic journey at SISA to her fascination with glass as a medium, Scheltjens has continuously pushed the boundaries of her craft, capturing the essence of her subjects and inviting viewers to explore the nuances of perception. Through her exceptional talent and boundless creativity, she continues to make a lasting impact on the contemporary art scene.

July 3, 2023