Chintan Bolliger

I was born in Zurich, Switzerland, where I received my formal art education at the University of the Arts (Kunstgewerbeschule), followed by two years at F+F Art School for conceptual and experimental exploration.

As I progressed in my art making, I realized that paint was the medium that spoke most strongly to me. I need to get my hands dirty.

Before settling on Salt Spring Island thirty years ago, I lived and worked in many inspiring locations around the world. Each has left traces in my practice.

I’ve shown my work in many solo and group shows in Switzerland, Hawaii and, of course, British Columbia. 

Looking deeply into the natural world, wherever I have called home, has been the catalyst for much of my work.

I’ve always been interested in time and deep roots. My earlier paintings were almost archeological in construct;

a search for something long lost. 

Now I’m attracted by more ephemeral phenomena, things which rise, transform and move on; unbound by the constraints of time.

Working in acrylic on board, I begin each piece by laying down a textural foundation. I then build it up with multiple layers of colour and glazing, adding, subtracting and adding again. This creates an ever-changing surface environment from which the painting can take form.

Each new series of paintings brings the excitement of moving towards something new, revealing aspects and ideas which, to me, were previously unknown.

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