Leaves of Bamboo by Bianca ter Riet

About "Leaves of Bamboo"

by Bianca ter Riet

About the artwork

On a bright, white canvas, a minimalist but vivid scene unfolds. On the left side of the canvas, like an elegant wave slowly washing over the edge, a lush collection of bamboo leaves curves towards the centre. They cover more than half the background, but do so with a light, dancing grace - never heavy, never obtrusive.

The leaves are long and narrow, playful in shape, with a subtle line pattern of veins that, on closer inspection, lie almost like brush strokes across the surface. The colour ranges from fresh spring green to deep olive green, with here and there a leaf just beginning to age, slightly yellowed at the edges. These shades give the composition depth and movement, like a gentle wind that has just passed through the foliage.

The stems from which the leaves spring are thin and resilient, often placed diagonally or slightly curved, giving the composition a natural dynamism. The way they cross each other, overlap diagonally or hang loose from each other creates a rhythm - a visual cadence that is both soothing and lively.

The right side of the canvas remains largely empty, scattered only here and there with the faint shadow of a leaf tip that almost dares to enter the white space. This balance between abundance and emptiness makes the image serene. The emptiness is not a lack, but a breathing space - a silent counterpart to the lush left side.

The white surface acts not merely as a background, but as an active player in the composition. It enhances the freshness of the greenery, captures light and reflection, and invites the viewer to dwell on the simplicity of natural forms. No chaos or colour spectacle here, but pure harmony - the sound of leaves in the wind, translated into form and space.