Arie Smit

Amir Sidharta, 'Vibrant': Arie Smit, Hexart Publishing, 2002, p. 6.112, illustrated  

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is a fine network of craquelure at the surface, consistent with the age of the work. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals a few very small spots of restoration scattered at the surface of the work. Framed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

“Those who can imagine things in reality and draw them accurately are illustrators. Those who see the hidden forms and see color as shapes are painters”.

Arie Smit

Suteja Neka and Drs. Sudarmaji, Arie Smit, Koes Artbooks, Bali, 1995, pg. 8.

In celebration of Arie Smit’s 100 year birthday anniversary, Sotheby’s Hong Kong is proud to offer five remarkable paintings by the artist for this season. The Dutch artist enjoyed capturing the daily activities of village life, and he was a keen admirer of the temples and religious festivals that frequented island existence. Arie Smit’s paintings are vibrant depictions of the Indonesian landscape, shown with the artist’s thick brushstrokes and attention to colors that celebrated the country’s majestic scenery and rich culture.

He had the soul of a romantic wanderer, and traveled extensively throughout Indonesia, capturing the beauty of the archipelago in his artworks. The artist used nuances of colors in the works which he referred to as “broken colors”¹ to depict the sunlight streaming through the island foliage in golden rays. The work Pemandangan Pura (Temple View) is a very special piece from the artist, for the bold display of colors and exuberant brushstrokes all convey the artist’s joy to have experienced such an awe-inspiring sight.

The generous use of blues and greens play with the visual perception of the actual landscape, for with the artist’s desire to reformulate the brilliance of the island into his painting, he has recreated a landscape that is partly a memory, and partly imagined. The artist continues to capture the warmth and richness of the Indonesian country and people. As one of the first European artists to arrive to Southeast Asia, and through his passion for the region, his works are a visual celebration of the human connections he has made throughout the years. Pemandangan Pura (Temple View) is a testimony of his great love for the region.

¹Suteja Neka and Drs. Sudarmaji, Arie Smit, Koes Artbooks, Bali, 1995, pg. 19