Chris Slabber’s “Renatus” series stands out as an evocative exploration of identity and transformation, blending human features with vivid paint splashes that appear to dance through water. The South African artist employs digital manipulation to craft mesmerizing images where the boundaries between solid form and fluid color dissolve, inspiring introspection about the fluidity of self. The striking interplay between flesh-toned portraits and the dynamic energy of splashes evokes a sense of renewal—capturing the essence of rebirth akin to the Latin meaning of “Renatus”: “born again”. Through this process, Slabber artistically conveys the complex journey of finding brightness amid shadows and symbolizes the potential to illuminate our existence.
This series embodies Slabber’s personal journey toward rediscovering his art and embracing transformation. The imagery suggests an emergence from chaos into clarity, as bold colors cascade and merge, providing a metaphorical canvas for reinvention. Delicate features emerge from swirls of color, reflecting the ebb and flow of life’s challenges and triumphs. By fusing human elements with fluid dynamics, Slabber illustrates not only the literal transformation evident in his work but also the deeper, often invisible, shifts within oneself. Each piece, therefore, becomes a narrative of rebirth, creativity, and the courage to evolve—demonstrating the profound impact art can have on personal growth and understanding.
Renatus is a first name of Latin origin which means “born again”. This body of work is inspired by the past few years of my life wherein I found new meaning to my craft. It’s about seeing the light in the darkest hour, but more so, it’s about becoming the light.
Chris Slabber
More info: Behance, Instagram.
