Antwerp-based painter Flo Bastiaensen is inspired by the banality of everyday life, in all its complexity. The contradictions between responsibility and naive fantasy, the seriousness and the absurdity of life. She strives to find a balance between figurativism and abstraction. A play between reason and emotion to suggest a scene or situation that is open to interpretation. The viewer is invited to ponder about the stories behind the portraits.

Through various mediums such as oil paint, acrylic, crayons, and pencils, she captures fleeting moments of tension and serenity. Her aim is not only to create a visual experience, but also to engage in an emotional and intellectual dialogue with the audience. Her work is a means to forge connections, to share common emotions and experiences, thus exploring the boundaries of our understanding and imagination.

The title of Flo Bastiaensen’s first solo expo, ‘You can’t milk a cow with your hands in your pants’ is an ode to the beauty of craftmanship, professionalism and respect for the trade. Rolling up one's sleeves, both literally and figuratively. She inherited this dedication to craft from her father and it is reflected in all the works in the exhibition. Flo Bastiaensen often explores mundane, familial issues in this series. The recurring textiles and contrasts, on the other hand, are a tribute to the Flemish Masters. This nod to the past not only emphasises the artistic finesse of their time but also underscores the timeless value of craftsmanship and respect for the trade.

Flo Bastiaensen hopes her art not only inspires and touches individuals but also contributes to a broader cultural and societal discourse. She strives to have a positive impact on the world around her, believing that art is a powerful instrument for change and transformation.

In her ongoing journey as an artist, she is grateful for the opportunity to share her passion and to be part of a community of creative thinkers and makers. She looks forward to continuing her artistic journey, knowing that each new piece offers a fresh opportunity to explore, discover, and grow.

Flo Bastiaensen studied painting at the KASK School of Arts in Ghent (BA) and completed her studies with a MA in Fine Arts at Sint-Lucas Hogeschool in Antwerp.

Exhibitions
2019   Exit16, Sint Laurentius site, Antwerp. Curated by Christine Lambrechts – group show
2018   Freedom explained logically, Weltkunstzimmer, Düsseldorf and Sint Laurentius site, Antwerp – group show
2017   Verkavelingsvlaams, Nest, Ghent – group show
2017   Unapologetic, Bijloke Zwarte zaal, Ghent – group show
2016   Fond de teint, Kunsttoren, Ghent – group show
2015   720 HOURS, Oude Beurs, Antwerp – group show