Experimental abstract works.

Surface: Yupo (Yupo: a non-Absorbent Substrate — 100% recyclable, waterproof paper with attributes and properties that make it the perfect solution for a variety of marketing, design, packaging and labelling)

Abstracts in neocolour ill Aquerelle on incised Tyvek (Tyvek: a 100% synthetic material made from high-density spunbound polyethylene fibers)

I have been experimenting with abstraction again after giving the genre a break for x2 years. The choice to work on synthetic paper unfolded of its own accord. I had heard about Yupo and had not tried it out many years later. A trip to the supply store where I was told there was none in stock but why don’t I try Tyvek instead. Not knowing yet what and how I was going to use it, I took a few sheets of the suggested Tyvek. To my surprise a technique I’d invented a few years ago where I created an engraving effect by embossing a Fabriano Rosaspina 250gms with an H6 graphite pencil and then over-laying that with a wax based compressed charcoal stick, could be created on Tyvek. However, not only that but I could take the engraved ‘effect’ a step further by printing a monotype print from the engraved/incised Tyvek that had a wax based water colour stick applied to it. I’m happy to say the outcome of my invention is very satisfying.

Now while the works on Tyvek are predominantly figurative works, I did the first abstract a few days ago and you can see it posted here below.

As for the works on Yupo, the paper size that is currently available in South Africa is limited, this means that as I progress into larger works I will be creating arrangements that are not dependent upon a uninterrupted surface.

This new series is rooted in an interest in outer-space anomalies, a subject that has fascinated me since I was a child. Now, recently, July, August, September (2025) have been months where I have been analysing star maps from an amateur telescope with co-ordinates set on tracking the 3rd interstellar visitor to our solar system (3i/ATLAS). With the aid of a basic photo editing software, I decipher the distant, low res and somewhat hazy glow of the object and then adjust the exposure to reveal the object’s shape and immediate vicinity. This process has inspired a Youtube channel where I discuss my discoveries with an audience. If you would like to view the channel or subscribe, https://www.youtube.com/@hotpothippie

This series of abstracts echo my digital explorations into deep space, uncovering possible extraterrestrial architecture. While that is still not a recognised science, my image analysis shows some very revealing structures, some that are, according to X’s Groc, an informal contribution to mainstream science.

If you would like to acquire any of these artworks, please do not hesitate to contact me. Best place to do that would be via Instagram. Thank you and welcome to the Ade Kipades art experience.