Dan Gonen
Diptych
Textiles and yarn
(2x) 210 cm x 186 cm
2024This textile diptych is a large and intriguing piece. It features a number of small, friendly, and often humorous faces, all made by hand. Following an earlier work, a triptych with a similar concept, this work presents two figures facing each other, as if in the midst of a conversation. Similar to the previous work, the small faces connect to form one larger face, but here, the focus is on the interaction between the two figures.The colorful braids are assembled in a more free manner, evoking a sense of movement and playfulness. They also appear as braids of hair, adding an extra layer of personality and fun to each individual face. The vibrant colors and textures are bold and eye-catching, adding depth to the overall image.Drawing inspiration from pop art, this artwork brings together a modern aesthetic with a sense of warmth and familiarity. The bright, tactile details invite viewers of all ages to connect with it and experience the interaction between the figures.
Triptych
Textiles and yarn
(3x) 186 cm x 180 cm
2024This large textile work, made in the form of a triptych, is a warm and inviting piece. Created over the course of a year, the work features a collection of small, friendly, and sometimes funny faces, each one carefully braided and stitched by hand. These individual faces come together to form one large face, with a sense of unity, humour and connection.The work draws inspiration from ethnic craft traditions, in a style that resembles ancient gods or creatures. The vibrant colors and textures add a lively quality to the work. The different threads—ranging from thick to thin, light or dark—invite viewers to engage not only with the visual elements but also with the feeling of the piece.The long, meditative process of making the triptych, like a marathon of repetitions, is reflected in the rhythm of the work. It offers a sense of calm and patience, that can speak to anyone who takes the time to view it. The approachable nature of this work makes it enjoyable for people of all ages, inviting them to pause, explore, and connect with its intricate charms.
Sun of SummerFoam, different textiles and yarn
260x260 cm
2025This work is the first in a series of four works, each representing a different season. It has the shape of a large, round sun. It is made by hand, using layers of foam, satin, mesh, and braided yarn.The surface features 18 sun-like faces in various sizes and expressions, arranged to form one large face. The colors- mostly yellow and neon orange, suggest heat and energy, like the surface of the sun.The idea behind the series comes from how children often imagine the world around them, and how it is often portrayed in children's books. They tend to see seasons, flowers, trees, clouds etc. as characters with personalities. This artwork reflects that kind of thinking- seeing summer not just as a time of year, but as a playful, expressive figure.
Dan Gonen[email protected]
Dan Gonen (1978, Israel) finished his Bachelor of Fashion Design at the Rietveld in 2006. He was awarded a prize for his achievments in Fashion in Paris but he since has shifted his practice to fine arts. He shows his work in the Netherlands and abroad and lives and works in Amsterdam.
