Søren Sejr (b. 1981) is a Danish artist whose work is characterized by an exciting duality.
This duality is also reflected in the stylistic development of his art. During his studies at the Aarhus Art Academy from 2006 to 2010, he developed a style that was initially characterized by abstract, geometric compositions of multicolored stripes and blocks. Dominant colors such as yellow, green, blue, brown and white defined these early works, in which abstract forms sometimes appeared that could evoke associations with human or animal figures.
From in 2017, the style of his work began to evolve and became increasingly minimalist. Large monochrome, mostly black surfaces, which are now typical for the artist, have since dominated his pieces. In this artistic process, Søren Sejr initially allows his instinct and emotions to take the lead. However, this phase is followed by a more controlled approach. He disrupts the deep black, monotonous fields with an unpainted area, on which spontaneous, abstract lines are visible.
These lines vary in thickness and length and look like a collection of scratches or sketches that do not follow any recognizable shapes or symbols. They contrast with the broader, more subtle brushstrokes in the black area of the paintings. These works always seem to seek a balance between static, geometric surfaces and dynamic, gestural brushstrokes.
In addition to his typical acrylic and oil paintings, Søren Sej also creates large-format reliefs. He creates these from recycled wooden planks and pieces, which he assembles in irregular but deliberately chosen patterns. The final treatment of the wood surface is achieved through targeted flaming. This technique is based on the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban method, which gives the works their characteristic black color and emphasizes the physicality and structure of the wood.
The burning of the wood surface creates a cracked, matt but deep black color that changes its character depending on the light and angle of view. The irregular patterns and color depths invite us to reflect on the relationship of the artwork to the space.
He tells the SVFK (National Art Workshops in Denmark) about the reliefs: “I want to work with wood and the relief. On the one hand, to give my language a concrete depth and physicality that painting does not offer, and on the other, to explore how wood (…) can offer a materiality and depth of color that is different from that of paint.”
Søren Sejr creates an interplay between light and shadow, matt and shiny surfaces, materiality, and physicality in his works. And an incredible minimalist aesthetic always characterizes this work. His art results from a harmonized tension between instinct and disciplined artistry. Sejr’s work challenges us as viewers to find the balance and embark on a search for equilibrium in his compositions.
He is represented by Galleri Jacob Bjørn in Aarhus, Denmark.
