Classically trained artist Joke Frima studied with Signorina Nerina Simi in Florence between 1976 and 1985. She credits her classical training for sharpening her powers of observation and helping in the development of a greater sensitivity in her drawing. The technical knowledge Frima acquired in Studio Simi gave her a critical groundwork to base her career on, and later a greater freedom in realizing subsequent paintings.

 

Nature has proved to be an “inexhaustible source of inspiration” for the artist, and plant life especially. Certain subject matter such as pumpkins, water lilies and fruit have recurred in her work from the beginning. She uses this inspiration to depict nature in its purest form; untouched by man.

 

Working with oil on canvas or panel, Frima’s classical realism is brought to life with deep, earthy tones and incredible attention to texture. In an abstracted play of texture, rhythm, light and colour, Frima manages to evoke a sense of calm and harmony in a rather modest subject and also grab the viewer’s full attention.

 

With a 25-year-long career under her belt, Frima has forged an impressive reputation as a painter of still life and landscape. She has published three books; her latest is titled Joke Frima: l'univers des simulacres; schilderijen, paintings, peintures 2014-1989.

 

Frima now lives in Vissingy, France where she holds annual exhibitions of her work. She also keeps a studio in the Netherlands and regularly participates in shows there. Frima has also exhibited her work in Italy, Poland, Japan and the United States.