Painter Kristof Santy (b.1987, Roeselare) draws inspiration for his colourful,vibrant images from folk tales and customs, as well as from his immediate surroundings. In an era of rapid digital image production, Santy consciously chooses painting as a slow and resistant medium. His practice explores how images function, how memory works and how painting can still reshape our view of reality.
 
Although Santy takes his cue from recognisable motifs in everyday life – flowers, interiors, dishes, vehicles, tools – his works transcend mere representation. Through his play with composition and perspective, and his use of geometric patterns, repetition and saturated colours, mundane objects become monumental, enigmatic and charged with meaning. Santy also collects all manner of folk art and objects, turning his home and studio into a veritable cabinet of curiosities, which serves as a major source of inspiration.
 
In a short space of time, Santy has established an impressive artistic career in Belgium and internationally. Santy has had solo exhibitions in Los Angeles, Brussels, Vienna and Milan, and has taken part in group exhibitions at venues including Bozar, Mu.ZEE, S.M.A.K., Abby Kortrijk, M HKA and Kunsthaus NRW.

This publication brings together Santy’s most recent work – paintings, cut-outs and drawings. It is richly illustrated and features essays by Dr Gregor Jansen (former director of Kunsthalle Düsseldorf) and Philippe Van Cauteren (director of S.M.A.K.). The artist himself also provides insight through text and images into his sources of inspiration and his cabinet of curiosities. The book is designed by Atelier Sven Beirnaert (ASB).