In his works, self-taught artist Douglas Knesse combines the inherited cultural language of abstract expressionism, action painting and pop art. He is reconfiguring these with the lens of surfing, skateboarding and the digital age, and through the multidisciplinary, he creates pieces with references also to audiovisual and streetwear.
Working on large canvases, Knesse incorporates surprising elements, as they might consist of varied forms and shapes. He uses also reclaimed pieces from old tarpaulin from trucks, adding colour on the canvases that might differ in strength or thickness, thus creating a patchwork of sorts. The differing possibilities of the materials open up new avenues of exploration for Knesse, allowing chance, texture and material memory to play an active role in the work. His works are constructed from opposing elements that function as contrast and sources of tension to one another. Becoming a counterweight to his pre-used canvases, Knesse’s brighter palette can be seen influenced by the vibrant Brazilian surf and skate culture. Through the vigorous overlapping of colour tones, Kness processes movement and energy, translating physical motion into painterly expression.
Knesse aspires to present the duality of life; the chaos and order behind everything. The Nike Boy as a figure is often found in his works; being both a representation of himself as well as a symbol of aspiration and achievement. Lifestyle and fashion choice, Nike traditionally epitomizes the pursuit of victory, which has translated to the brand the subculture, with e.g. rappers, prefers to use. The thematic elements emerge strongly from behind the shapes and the urban atmosphere connects with a universe of a mixed and matched variation full of character. Unexpectedly, the artist himself experiences spirituality within the works.
