About Antje

Artist’s Statement

Nature is at the heart of my art practice. I try to live in harmony with nature and follow the rhythm of the seasons. So often we forget that humans are part of nature, not separate from it, and that nothing exists in technology that we couldn't find in ourselves as well. When people are detached from nature they easily become overly concerned with appearances or try to be in control over certain aspects in life. Maintaining order and a respectable facade allows us to cover up our vulnerability and shields us from the unpredictability and chaos of the world. But it also isolates us and we forget what it means to be humane or individual.

As an artist, I’m interested in looking behind this 'facade' to find the essence of my subject matter. Sensitive to energies, I try to convey the ‘spirit’ of a certain place, person or animal through my artwork. I'm not interested in exposing someone, but in finding true beauty.

My preferred medium is traditional oil on either canvas or wood panel. Occasionally, I use graphite or ink on either wood or paper, or I “paint” by layering tinted and textured paper onto a wooden support. To me, these are mediums that best transmit energies.

My paintings, like myself, are not good at small talk, nor do they cry for attention. But anyone who takes the time to contemplate my artwork will find a sense of curiosity, serenity, or a spark of joy.

Bio

Antje Martens-Oberwelland is a formally trained fine artist based in Southwestern Ontario.

Born in Germany, she studied at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg, Germany, and in addition, with several artists, among them traditional oil painters, (stone) sculptors, ceramic artists, illustrators and stage designers.

When she followed her husband to live and farm in rural Ontario, Antje specialized in painting pastoral landscapes and whimsical animal portraits in oil or ink. She didn't record most of her paintings at the time, but they can be found in many private collections.

After a near-death experience, Antje returned into her physical body with the ability to feel the energies of people and places very strongly. This led to her interest and training in energy medicine as well as her ability to see behind the surface and find the spirit of her chosen subject, which she tries to infuse into her current paintings.

With over 20 years of experience in teaching art classes for all ages and all levels, she believes that in an environment of respect and encouragement, anyone can become creative and thrive in their craft, or find solace in a hectic world.

Antje likes to be an advocate for those who have no voice and often gears her artwork toward raising awareness. She has exhibited widely and sold her artwork in galleries, at festivals, in stores, and at local, national and international juried art shows where some of her artwork received awards. Private collectors in Europe, Canada and USA appreciate her work, and to her delight, she had hospitals and retirement homes acquire some of her paintings.