Kevin Van Aelst

I discovered the work of Kevin Van Aelst while procrastinating one day at my old job. I can’t quite remember how I stumbled upon his online gallery, but I was glad I did that day. I remember my co-worker and I then spent the rest of the day viewing his entire online portfolio, pulling each other over every now and then to say things like “oh look at this one!” or “hehe isn’t this one clever!”

There is something irresistible about Van Aelst’s art. I think it is its lack of pretention, and its simplicity. I like artists that use simple visuals and forms to convey powerful messages. In his case, there is also a playful quality, and an enchantment with the ordinary and everyday. I suppose what that means is that his art is both accessible and also fun. It makes us look at the familiar in new ways. Using the most unexpected and often banal materials, Van Aelst is able to bring to life the moon, the ocean, the pulse of a human heart. Isn’t there something wonderful about that? 

Come and enjoy his gallery here.