Cheraine Collette creates resplendent photographic paintings steeped with enlightened symbolic and metaphysical references. Her allegorical panoramas of astonishing beauty and splendor lure us into mystical and mysterious realms and propel us through time and space. We enter altered realities where earthly and heavenly scenarios coalesce and we embark upon a palpable transcendence.
Cheraine’s intricate technical prowess is reminiscent of the detailed classical drawings and paintings by such historical masters as Rembrandt. However, Cheraine is an esteemed contemporary visionary. She literally paints with digital brushes using a Wacom cintiqu pro device. Adept at implementing both creative skills and computer technology, she takes time to apply several hundred layers and extensive blending as well as integrating many photographs into each individual work of art. She achieves tremendous depth and dimension.
For instance, “Tiger’s Tranquility” required about 320 layers existing of photographs, hand painted masks, hand painted details, hand painted shadows and lights, hand painted lighting adjustments, and hand painted color adjustments to create this work.
In the inimitable style of Magic Realism, Cheraine penetrates the exterior physicality of her subjects to reveal their inner spirit. Her mesmerizing narratives evoke a myriad of visual and visceral revelations and arouse inspired introspection. Profound contrasting emotions arise within us such as power, vulnerability, ecstasy, wonderment, freedom, terror, and entrapment.
Cheraine’s stellar use of atmospheric light and shadow produces an enthralling theatrical impression and harkens a likeness to the ambiance of film noir. The lines between reality and fantasy are blended and diffused in an exquisite panoply of enigma and paradox.
Many of her images portray nude female figures entwined with elements from nature, wild animals, architectural structures and other manmade objects. These diverse forces coexist and emphasize the inextricable and synergistic bond between humans and the animal kingdom. In some images the sensual figures, with their undulating forms, become an inseparable harmonious part of the landscape.
Cheraine invites us into her insightful magical creative visions, encourages us to shed our preconceptions of reality and venture beyond the norm. As viewers we are given the opportunity to ascend to a higher level of consciousness where we may gain powerful awareness about ourselves, humanity, and the natural world.
About her “Treasures” series Cheraine states, “In this series, the treasures of humanity are combined with the treasures from nature.”
Visit Cheraine Collette’s Website: cherainecollette.com
This Art Review was written by Renee Phillips, Director and Curator, Manhattan Arts International and The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS, New York, NY
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