WIJNAND DRIESSEN

The Art Department Eindhoven 2024

Challenge your senses and engulf into the fascinating scenery of Undone’s universe! For the production of this Prime Video original animated television series, a team of nine background artists, including Eindhoven-based Wijnand Driessen, created over 1500 oil paintings. Some of them will be available to enjoy right on The Art Department grounds, from 3-27 April at our Natlab location!

And simply because Wijnand’s artistry is so incredibly spectacular, we are adding a second segment to the expo, titled Places I Have Been. It will showcase artworks created between 2022 and 2024, featuring a blend of cardboard sculptures and oil paintings.  

The Prime Video animated series Undone was created by Kate Purdy and Raphael Bob-Waksberg, and directed by Dutch filmmaker Hisko Hulsing. It starred Rosa Salazar and Bob Odenkirk among others.

The series delves into “the elastic nature of reality” through its protagonist, Alma. Following a near-fatal car accident, Alma discovers a newfound relationship with time, using this ability to uncover the truth about her fathers death.

Upon its release in 2019, Undone received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, earning recognition as one of the best dramas of the year.

As an artist it is amazing to work in this way” Wijnand acknowledges. ’It celebrates the old techniques in this digital age and creates a unique look.” For this project, the artist created 170 paintings, between 2018 and 2021. Some of his works have been preserved and can be seen in this exhibition, showcasing paintings featured in the series.

 

Places I Have Been celebrates Wijnand’s attention to detail, a passion for artisanal craftsmanship and an affinity for natural materials are central elements of his artistic approach.

In 2022 Wijnand began experimenting with cardboard. “I uncovered the potential and versatility of cardboard. It offers boundless creative possibilities.” Wijnand expressed. Thus he embarked on crafting a series of miniature urban sculptures. The juxtaposition of cardboard’s raw and humble appearance with intricate detailing and precise construction results in a unique aesthetic.

Wijnand’s artistic repertoire also encompasses depictions of urban landscapes with this exhibition spotlighting paintings of Eindhoven and Paris. Reflecting on his transition from background artist to independent painter he remarks “After years of adhering to production constraints, I felt compelled to break free and explore my creative boundaries. This series of paintings is emblematic of that journey of self-discovery.”