Vlisco's Beauty. African woman in colourful clothes. by Karen Nijst

About "Vlisco's Beauty. African woman in colourful clothes."

by Karen Nijst

About the artwork

I love Vlisco fabrics and have used several patterns for inspiration for my work on many occasions. Although there is no direct association, Vlisco fabrics often remind me of the work of Gustav Klimt, whom I greatly admire. The designs are rich and expressive thanks to the beautifully detailed patterns, the symbolism used and the intense colours.

If Vlisco fabrics were paintings ...
Then you could say they are inspired by expressionism, which focuses on expressing emotions, feelings and inner experiences. It is often colourful, expressive and full of energy, just like the striking designs and vibrant colours of Vlisco fabrics.

Like expressionism, which seeks to express the inner world of the artist in a subjective and emotional way, Vlisco fabrics focus on expressing the rich culture, history and emotions of the people who wear them. They reflect the stories and traditions of African communities in a vibrant and intense way.

Africans are addicted to Vlisco's cheerful European fabrics. They are used for festive occasions, important ceremonies and for outfits in which people want to shine like a star in the sky.

In my creation, I introduce you to a beautifully dressed African woman, who enters with graceful strides into a floral hedge of honour, ready to shine at the ball.
The patterns on her dress and in the background are fantasy and, to my knowledge, never used on Vlisco fabrics.