ABOUT HENRIK CONSTANTIN
Henrik Constantin Nielsen (b. 1976) is a Danish visual artist with a strong international outlook who mixes styles, techniques and isms in his studies of human nature. He works both abstractly and realistically and to a large extent lets the moment dictate the expression of the work. In the same way, he works very actively to let the choice of color express emotions and stories in the individual work.
"The Illusion of Duality
One of Henrik Nielsens main objectives is to show the illusion of the duality between art and reality in his life and practice as an artist.
This is due to the common notion that art isn’t really a fundamental part of human existence, experience or a natural occurrence in everyday life. Instead it is confined to institutions whom is then given the privilege of defining what is artsimply by being an appointed institution. And therefore, not being art.
The fundamental difference between institutions and art is, that whereas institutions have limits, art is limitless. This also makes it the most profound human activity and product because it is the one that comes closest to mimicking the unity and infinity of the universe.
The blanc canvas is limitless. It is a manifestation of potential. The potential from where everything can grow. But it can also be an overwhelming space, because you must make a conscience decision to use your intuition instead of logic. Shake off everything you have ever learned and go where the image takes you. Have faith in what you are doing instead of imitating art.
Like art faith is also limitless. It is not bound by the laws of logic or common sense. It is - or at least should be - an expression of true intuition. Faith is in this meaning of the word not confined to the narrow schemes of religion but rather a universal yearning for truth and laws of nature. For instance, love.
At least this is how it is for Henrik Nielsen and why he insists on working with art in an alternative way. Henrik Nielsen has for many years lived an unconventional life and has instead of going to an art academy he has crossed the Alpes on an old, red, lady bike. Been an essential part of an sustainable community called the World Family in the village of Fisterra located in the area of Galicia in the north of Spain. Henrik Nielsen has also traveled across Europe and walked the Camino three times.
Many of these experiences have molded Henrik Nielsen as an artist and his mission to break the illusion of duality between art and reality, faith and knowledge, wisdom and science.