Where do my ideas come from?
There are many clichés pertaining to art, such as beauty is found in the eye of the beholder. This is especially true of the Batik medium which appeals to a unique aesthetic. I have enjoyed the simplicity of a simple flower or the shape and strength of a single tree. Ideas simply evolve. Studying art and learning to appreciate the Chinese ideology with General Chen taught me the focus of Asian Art and the impact of space. The spaces of places left open are used to emphasize the subject. The strokes become more powerful. Often man is found in an insignificant placement and nature becomes the predominant subject in Asian art. A fascinating concept to me.
Why use a shadow frame?
Batik is so unique, the selection of a shadow frame emphasizes the art piece. More ornate or decorative frames tend to distract from the work. The shadow frame that we build adds to the presentation of the Batik by letting the art speak its piece without distraction.
What is Batik?
Batik is an ancient artistic method using wax and dye. The process has experienced many changes and appears with a variety of techniques in different countries. My art form is the result of observations in Taiwan and China. I enjoy incorporating Chinese brush painting to create its own effect. The process is accomplished with simple tools, a wooden frame and a variety of brushes. The wax used is paraffin, beeswax or a combination of both depending on the desired affect. Having determined what picture you have in mind, the wax is applied. Dye is then used to emphasize the beginning of the design or subject. More wax is applied to build the picture and more dye is used to bring the desired color into play. Thorough drying is necessary after each step. When the picture is complete, wax is placed entirely over the fabric then crinkled and placed in the last dye bath. After the fabric has dried, the wax is removed by ironing it from the fabric- the end product is always a surprise and a delight as colors are revealed.
What kinds of brushes and ink do I use?
The tools of this art form are very simple. Black India ink is used for the Chinese brush strokes. I use Chinese brushes of a variety of sizes and shapes which are usually made of horsehair, although other materials are also available. My favorite brush is a simple Chinese brush, the same that students would use in their school preparations to perfect their mastering of Chinese calligraphy - the Taiwanese word is
ia'n-pit, which translated means hairy pencil . It is a comfortable size and easy to control.
What kinds of surface is my work done on? Is it canvas?
It is not canvas, per se. The only fabric used in my Batiking process is 100% cotton. This fabric allows maximum absorption of the dye. Any synthetic fabric would not respond to the dyes used in the process. Some of my work is simply brush strokes on silk or on paper. These items have not been Batiked.
Do you have a Chinese chop?
Yes. I have two versions of the same signature. All my artwork is stamped with one of them.
What is the significance of the Chinese chop?
In the Orient, a person's signature is represented on the chop - or carved marble block. Your name is carved into a square of granite, marble or wood. This stamp is registered with the government as your official signature. Everyone possess his own chop to be used for any official business, such as banking or legal transactions. The Taiwanese term for chop is
in a'.To use this chop you stamp it into a red ink pad, then on to whatever surface you desire. Names are extremely important to the Asian culture, often not revealed until a newborn child is a month old. My name was given to me after many weeks of consideration by a Taiwanese professor at the Taiwan Seminary in Taipei. The surname of 'Beh' is one of the hundred surnames recognized to the Asian Culture. This is a meaningful choice for two reasons; first it has the phonetic alliteration of Bechtel, second 'Beh' means wheat which is a grain of the West.
How do I contact the artist?
Please see the contact information on my home page.
How do I make a purchase?
Please see the contact information on my home page.
What is commissioning?
Commissioning simply means that you would like to buy an original work of art specifically designed for a particular location.
How do I have a piece commissioned?
Please contact Leslie Grotenhuis at
Leslie@hbechtelart.com for details on commissioning a piece.