Wilma Vissers is a prominent visual artist residing and working in Groningen, Netherlands. Known for her innovative approach to art, she explores themes of space, landscape, and emptiness through her distinct creations. Wilma’s artistic adventure began in 1989, during which she has developed a unique practice that includes painterly objects, drawings, artist books, and large-scale installations.
Wilma’s passion for art was nurtured at the Academy of Visual Arts Minerva in Groningen, where she specialized in printmaking and painting. During her studies, she grappled with the prevailing question: “Is painting dead?” This atmosphere of uncertainty motivated her to think creatively about art’s possibilities.
From her early days, she has been drawn to the vast landscapes around the North Atlantic Ocean, which serve as a source of inspiration. Long walks through these settings foster her creativity and serve as a meditative practice, allowing her to perceive the world uniquely.
Wilma’s work reflects her deep engagement with nature. She often incorporates the forms and textures found in landscapes into her creations, which range from works on paper and maps to installations made from materials like papier-mâché and wood. One of her notable projects is an expansive installation in her studio, encapsulating her explorations into space and form.
Throughout her career, Wilma has participated in numerous artist residencies across Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. These experiences have been pivotal in her artistic growth, allowing her to experiment with different techniques such as lithography and letterpress. Her residency at Cló Ceardlann in Ireland notably influenced her understanding of materials, leading to innovative approaches to traditional painting.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for artists worldwide. For Wilma, it prompted a new direction in her work, shifting her focus from expansive landscapes to the objects around her studio. This exploration led her to create casts of everyday items, revealing the hidden dimensions of common objects in a way that mirrors her graphic work.
In her own words, Wilma states:
“Art gives individuals and communities a means to express their identities, beliefs, emotions, and experiences. In a time of global connectivity and cultural diversity, this expression helps to understand each other across different backgrounds and perspectives. It’s a universal language. My work investigates abstract representations of character, often rooted in hidden or fragmented narratives. I am drawn to traditional materials and historical techniques, not as fixed methods, but as starting points for experimentation. By deconstructing and reinterpreting these processes, I create work that bridges the past and present—inviting new meanings to emerge from old forms. This dialogue between material, technique, and story lies at the core of my practice.”
Wilma’s contributions to the art world have not gone unnoticed. She has exhibited her work internationally and has received grants, including from the Gerbrandy Foundation. Her works are held in several prominent collections, allowing her voice to resonate within the global art community.
Additionally, Wilma is active in art education, working with schools in Groningen to inspire the next generation of artists. Her commitment to creativity and innovation embodies her belief in the endless possibilities of art.
Wilma Vissers stands as a testament to resilience and creativity in the contemporary art landscape. Through her exploration of space, material, and the environment, she continues to inspire both her peers and audiences. As she moves forward in her artistic journey, Wilma invites us to reconsider the boundaries of painting and art in general.
Photo credits: The photograph is from the artist’s archive. Photo cover by Katherine Leedale
Written by Joanna Longawa
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