The Henri van Bentum Archive Project: Midsummer Night's Dream, Henri van Bentum, 1960, oil on masonite, painted while listening to music by Mendelssohn

07 March, 2016

Midsummer Night's Dream, Henri van Bentum, 1960, oil on masonite, painted while listening to music by Mendelssohn

"Midsummer Night's Dream", Henri van Bentum

Oil on masonite, 1960, Artist's Collection

Painted while listening to Felix Mendelssohn's composition of the same name. My mentor, Jock (J.W.G.) Macdonald, encouraged me to listen to music while painting. See our website

"Jock Macdonald Remembered".

About the art of Henri van Bentum

“The art of Henri van Bentum reminds us of organic processes on the cosmic and microcosmic levels. As one who has delved in the systems and information sciences, I see many organic cybernetic processes embodied in the work; they help me sense the vastness, complexity and beauty of the cosmos. At the same time, they are executed with a fine sense of colour and other design elements, which can serve as good examples for students of art (and science). I see his work as a paradigm for enduring works of art for the future.” Leslie Mezei, former professor of Computer Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada

Quote about "Organiverse Portfolio"

"Organiverse" by Henri van Bentum is a glimpse into the multilayered beauty of all that is life. As a physician and healer, I feel that these mandalas offer an immense opportunity for healing, and for a heart-based understanding of who we are physically, emotionally and spiritually. Peering into each mandala, a viewer witnesses the microcosms and macrocosms of life, and penetrates to the very depths of that which is truth. A dance of color, form, and contemplation, Organiverse is a meditation of self realization". Dr. Mark Sherman MDCM, CCFP