The statement "Kill your darlings," is one of my biggest stimulation and inspiration.
I think this is a fascinating theme because it reflects both on a tremendous tribute and to (and acknowledgement of) art historical conventions, as well as on the urge and the bold courage to continue and explore. In this process I rely most on my instinct as a painter. It’s a well considered way of working, I leave a lot to a somewhat controlled serendipity. First I start with a clear image in my head, but the painting never reaches this image. During the working process the painting asks for different actions and solutions. So the outcome is never what I imagined it to be.
A New Beginning is all it's about the journey one takes as a painter. That moment when you embark on a new adventure as you start on a new painting, a moment full of potential, desire and most of all inspiring hope. That’s why I try to bring the painting back to that moment, to a second beginning of that process, a fresh start.
For more of my work you can also check out my website www.gijsvanlith.nl
