A Celebration of Art – Exploring the Algarve Soul

Artist Chantal van Leeuwen:

Born in the heart of the Netherlands in 1973, Chantal van Leeuwen was destined for a life immersed in creativity.Growing up in an artistic household, with a father who was a painter and a mother with a keen eye for style, she was exposed to the world of art from a tender age. Frequent visits to art exhibitions in the Netherlands and France during her childhood ignited a passion that would shape her future.

Formal training in textile, fashion, and interior design at the core of Chantal’s artistic journey. Here, she honed her skills in model drawing, composition, and color theory. A deep dive into abstraction, experimentation with diverse techniques,and a three-year exploration of 17th-century painting methods further enriched her artistic repertoire.

In recent years, Chantal has found her artistic home in the Algarve, Portugal. Inspired by the region’s captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the echoes of her past experiences in fashion and interior design, her work is a harmonious blend of abstract and figurative elements.

Algarve’s Alchemy: Creating with Clay pigments

 Chantal’s fascination with the Algarve’s natural beauty is evident in her unique approach to pigments. She meticulously collects clay from the region’s cliffs, transforming them into a palette of warm earth tones, ochres, and deep reds. By combining these hand-processed pigments with oils, mixed media,and gold leaf, she creates works that are as tactile as they are visually stunning. The raw energy of the cliffs is captured on canvas, forming the foundation of her distinctive style.

Reimagining History: Art on Antique Doors 

A serendipitous discovery of antique Portuguese doors while exploring the Algarve cliffs led to a new artistic venture. The weathered charm and intricate details of these doors provide the perfect canvas for Chantal’s expressive brushstrokes. By fusing the past and present, she breathes new life into these historical artifacts, creating works that are both nostalgic and contemporary.

Portuguese Folklore Reimagined 

Chantal’s deep appreciation for Portugal’s cultural heritage is reflected in her latest collection. Inspired by the vibrant patterns and rich symbolism of traditional Portuguese clothing, she translates these elements into contemporary art. Her work pays homage to the country’s history while offering a fresh perspective on its folklore.

Chantal van Leeuwen’s art is a testament to the power of inspiration and the transformative nature of creativity. Rooted in her Dutch heritage and nurtured by the Algarve’s enchanting environment, her work invites viewers to embark on a visual journey that celebrates both the past and the present.