Sonja Kalb, born in Stuttgart, Germany, began her journey into the world of art with a passion for expressing herself through the interplay of colors and compositions. Armed with a degree as a Dipl. Ing. Textile and Design, she has merged precision and artistry throughout her career.
Sonja Kalb currently resides and works in the artistic hub of Düsseldorf, where her creative spirit finds inspiration in the rich tapestry of life. Her artistic career has transitioned from figurative painting to collage and eventually to abstraction.
“I reduce to the essential: shapes and the substance of colors,” says Sonja Kalb, succinctly capturing her artistic philosophy. Her works are a testament to this reductionist approach, focusing on surface structures, textures, strong contrasts, and expressive color choices. The complexity and optical depth of her paintings become perceptible as parts of the canvas remain intentionally open, inviting viewers to delve into the intricate layers of her creations.
Drawing inspiration from her travels, Sonja Kalb’s paintings bear titles that reference these diverse sources of influence. Her color worlds beckon viewers to embark on a sensuous journey of discovery, stimulating contemplation and inspiring individual thoughts and ideas.
One of her works, “AQUARIUS II,” created in 2022, stands as a testament to her skill in mixed media on canvas. With dimensions stretching to 210 cm x 420 cm, the artwork embodies the lightness of being, exuding positivity, liveliness, meditation, and imposing grandeur. The theme of the painting aligns with the transition to the Age of Aquarius, reminiscent of the iconic song “Aquarius” by Galt MacDermot from the musical Hair in 1979. Sonja Kalb infuses her work with structures and textures, utilizing various colors, including oil pastels, acrylic, and acrylic ink, to create a piece that resonates with depth.
The photograph of ‘AQUARIUS II’ in a room adds an extra layer of expressiveness to the artwork. The play of light and shadow, combined with the sheer size of the piece, enhances the visual impact, drawing the observer into the immersive world Sonja Kalb has crafted. In 2023, her paintings were showcased at events such as the Affordable Art Fair in New York, Aqua Art Miami, and the Art Show Los Angeles in February.
Sonja Kalb’s work is not confined to the canvas; it’s an exploration of emotions, an invitation to witness the convergence of form and substance. As she continues to evolve and redefine her artistic language, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Sonja Kalb’s journey, where shapes and colors coalesce to create a symphony of visual delights.
