Sybren Renema: Frontspace

Dürst Britt & Mayhew is proud to present a new body of work by Dutch artist Sybren Renema.

'Anchor Points' is a ceramic travel diary consisting of panels which have been impressed with coordinates. Each panel is glazed using the bedrock that corresponds to the coordinates given. In doing so, this series extends the notion of landscape painting, using the landscape as object, rather than as subject. When viewed together, the fourteen panels form an account of the circumnavigation of the island of Spitsbergen, which is the region most hit by climate change on our planet, as well as a strong presence in the Dutch collective unconsciousness through 17th century colonial ties. 

Since the most recent pandemic, Sybren Renema has largely dedicated himself to his academic pursuits. He obtained a tutorship in History of Art at the University of Glasgow, whilst simultaneously dedicating himself to a BSc in Geology (Hons) from the same institution. During this time, he participated in two expeditions to Svalbard/Spitsbergen, in which his creative interests could merge with his newfound scientific skills. The first expedition was marred by a Covid outbreak in the Barentsz Sea, as well as severe storms. Vowing joyful vengeance on the Arctic plague ship, Renema participated in a full circumnavigation in 2024.