For the Belgian artist Matthijs Kimpe, modern image techniques, such as screens and prints, form the breeding ground for his paintings. The intriguing choice of synthetic and optical materials, in combination with paint and other textures, forces viewers to observe the work from different angles. Therefore due to the optical nature of the work, the viewer’s position determines the image.

His practice revolves around manipulating the functions of the screen- and printer-reproduced images. In fact, his research mainly lies between the interaction of the traditional static image and the fleeting contemporary visual experience.

It comes as no surprise that Kimpe’s preference shifts to a combination of modern image techniques, optical materials, and classical painting techniques. At first, he studied graphic design at the KASK in Ghent, and only afterward followed a painting course at Sint-Lucas. Thus, in his paintings, digital and virtual images acquire an analog quality.

Also, Matthijs Kimpe makes extensive use of color theory, for example, through the application of complementary colors. The color models, such as RGB (for screens) and CMYK (for printing), play an important role as well. He became better acquainted with them during his graphic design studies