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A b o u t
A b o u t
Pascal Smelik ( 1983) is a Dutch artist and designer whose work navigates the intersection of science, perception and emotional experience. From his studio in Zeist, he creates sculptural light objects and spatial installations that evoke wonder, stillness, and a deep sensitivity to material presence.
Working with noble gases, reflective foils, cast metals and layered acrylics, Smelik explores how physical phenomena; such as reflection, refraction and luminescence; can be transformed into poetic, tactile encounters. His process is one of controlled experimentation, often resulting in works that reveal both the fragility and resilience of human perception.
Recurring themes in his practice include transformation, duality, and the layered self. In recent years, his work has shifted toward more introspective narratives, with series like State of Self and Where Light Waits offering meditative spaces that mirror inner emotional landscapes.
Smelik’s works have been exhibited in both gallery and public spaces, and have found their way into private collections across Europe. He is also the designer of the Drip candleholder produced by Pols Potten and included in a special Rijksmuseum edition.
Whether autonomous or applied, his work invites viewers to pause; to inhabit the threshold where form becomes feeling, and light becomes though
Working with noble gases, reflective foils, cast metals and layered acrylics, Smelik explores how physical phenomena; such as reflection, refraction and luminescence; can be transformed into poetic, tactile encounters. His process is one of controlled experimentation, often resulting in works that reveal both the fragility and resilience of human perception.
Recurring themes in his practice include transformation, duality, and the layered self. In recent years, his work has shifted toward more introspective narratives, with series like State of Self and Where Light Waits offering meditative spaces that mirror inner emotional landscapes.
Smelik’s works have been exhibited in both gallery and public spaces, and have found their way into private collections across Europe. He is also the designer of the Drip candleholder produced by Pols Potten and included in a special Rijksmuseum edition.
Whether autonomous or applied, his work invites viewers to pause; to inhabit the threshold where form becomes feeling, and light becomes though
-I explore how light, material, and reflection influence our; and especially my own; perception of time and identity. Through light sculptures, wall objects, and installations, I aim to activate both the senses and emotion.-
-I explore how light, material, and reflection influence our; and especially my own; perception of time and identity. Through light sculptures, wall objects, and installations, I aim to activate both the senses and emotion.-
A r t i s t s t a t e m e n t
A r t i s t s t a t e m e n t
I am fascinated by processes that escape control; organic growth, distortion, subtle shifts. In my work, I continuously seek the threshold between mastery and surrender, between what can be shaped and what remains mysterious.
Many of my sculptures emerge in collaboration with physical phenomena: flowing metal, solidifying wax, noble gases in vacuum tubes, reflections behaving like liquid. By deliberately allowing natural processes to shape the outcome, an open dialogue arises; between my intent as a maker and the forces of matter, time, and light.
Themes such as perception, transience, and identity run through my practice. In series like Distortion of Self and Resonant Response, I explore how reflection and distortion shape the way we see ourselves and others. In works like Where Light Waits and Solidified Thought, I examine stillness; the moment when movement ceases and something visible, tangible remains: a fossil of a thought, an echo of flow.
My approach is layered, intuitive, and deeply tied to my own inner rhythm. As someone with ADHD and bipolar tendencies, I know both the power and the pitfalls of creative intensity. Making is my way of channeling that energy; of shaping what is still formless, and creating space for wonder, stillness, and meaning.
I believe art is not only an outcome, but a process. An invitation to look again; at the work, at yourself, and at the world beyond.
Warm regards,Pascal Smelik
Many of my sculptures emerge in collaboration with physical phenomena: flowing metal, solidifying wax, noble gases in vacuum tubes, reflections behaving like liquid. By deliberately allowing natural processes to shape the outcome, an open dialogue arises; between my intent as a maker and the forces of matter, time, and light.
Themes such as perception, transience, and identity run through my practice. In series like Distortion of Self and Resonant Response, I explore how reflection and distortion shape the way we see ourselves and others. In works like Where Light Waits and Solidified Thought, I examine stillness; the moment when movement ceases and something visible, tangible remains: a fossil of a thought, an echo of flow.
My approach is layered, intuitive, and deeply tied to my own inner rhythm. As someone with ADHD and bipolar tendencies, I know both the power and the pitfalls of creative intensity. Making is my way of channeling that energy; of shaping what is still formless, and creating space for wonder, stillness, and meaning.
I believe art is not only an outcome, but a process. An invitation to look again; at the work, at yourself, and at the world beyond.
Warm regards,Pascal Smelik
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