The Alchemist Artworks

Stef van der Bijl was always fascinated about the finish of materials. Much of his work is characterized by polished or oxidated surfaces. In 2018 Stef started experimenting with different oxidation technics on brass and copper. Since 2020 Stef works under the artist name the Alchemist, brass or copper plates are placed on the ground and with special and secret technics he ‘paints’ with different types of patinas. No pencils are used, but natural processes come to life on these brass or copper plates. These processes take several weeks before it is ready. These panels are then finished in a 3mm thick epoxy coating, that stops the oxidation process and gives it a deep glossy look. The end result can never be predicted, since these are natural processes. Each year the Alchemist makes 20 works. Sometimes these works can also be tailormade on request.