Christine Bleny, a French artist hailing from Strasbourg, has woven her artistic journey into the rich tapestry of the UK for the past two decades. A connoisseur of fine art, Bleny’s trajectory in the realm of creativity began over 25 years ago when she embarked on formal training in fine art techniques. However, it was a fortuitous encounter with a French art teacher that ignited the flames of her true passion for painting.
Bleny’s artistic skills are as diverse as the strokes on her canvas. Inspired by luminaries such as Klimt, Gauguin, Monet, Botticelli, and Dalí, she also draws from the wellspring of Art Nouveau aesthetics. Her self-proclaimed status as an eclectic artist manifests in her ability to perceive beauty in every nook and cranny of existence, a quality that permeates her entire body of work. Her works have been sold in the USA, Europe, China, and the Middle East.
One of her works, “Diamonds of Africa,” serves as a testament to Bleny’s prowess. This triptych, an expansive 153 inches in width, was crafted in 2021 using acrylic and copper leaf. The painting in focus, the second panel measuring 150×100 cm, depicts a harmonious gathering of African elephants. In Bleny’s deft hands, these majestic creatures become more than mere subjects – they embody power and strength, eliciting a sense of spiritual significance.
The artist’s inspiration for this wildlife series, which includes animals like lions, leopards, cougars, and gorillas, stems from a deep-seated concern for the endangered status of these creatures. Motivated by the urgent need to address the challenges faced by wildlife, particularly as echoed through social media, Bleny embarked on a mission to translate their beauty onto canvas. The aim is to captivate the public’s attention and foster a collective realization that these animals are an integral part of our interconnected existence.
“Diamonds of Africa” epitomizes Bleny’s dedication to using her art as a means to contribute to the preservation of endangered species. Through the meticulous strokes of her brush, she elevates the noble elephants, embodying their grace and wisdom. The title itself encapsulates the essence of the work – a metaphorical acknowledgment of the intrinsic value these animals hold, akin to precious diamonds.Her ability to seamlessly fuse influences from diverse artistic realms into a cohesive body of work is a testament to her eclectic spirit.
