Bertil Nilsson is a visual artist working primarily with photography, but also with short films. Bertil collaborates closely with dancers and circus artists and draws inspiration from the body, nature, architecture and digital technology.
The series “Naturally” was born from his inspiration to explore both the landscape and the role of men within it. Working with the naked figure in nature, he created a connection with man’s natural history. Bertil is interested in what happens when he introduces cultural elements – colour, shape and dance gestures – to question that relationship.
What fascinates him about dancers, is how they use perfectly such a large range of movements, from the organic to the decidedly artificial. His choice of other elements build on that contrast, both integrating into the scene and serving as a focal point. The placement and choice of colour add a symbolic layer, creating possibly unexpected interpretations.
“Naturally” is also a personal journey of exploration. Bertil’s interventions took on a theme of tension between order and chaos. He likes to align, structure, analyse and ultimately control – in a visual sense – the world around him. The dancers with their free expression confront him with an opportunity to let go of a bit of his control and let the chaos unfold.
Images courtesy of Bertil Nilsson
Discover: www.bertil.uk
