Toni Silber-Delerive is an American artist known for her unique “aerialscape” paintings. Her work captures contemporary landscapes from an elevated perspective, transforming everyday scenes into abstract compositions. Born in Philadelphia, she holds a BFA from the Philadelphia College of Art (now University of the Arts) and has studied graphic design and silkscreen printing at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Silber-Delerive’s paintings often present a flattened plane that emphasizes abstract shapes, creating a distinctive narrative that reflects the character of each location she depicts.
Toni Silber-Delerive’s art invites viewers to see the world from a different angle—literally. Her aerial views of urban and suburban landscapes turn familiar scenes into striking abstract works. One of her pieces, “Nysa City Suburb,” is a perfect example of her technique and vision.
“Nysa City Suburb,” an acrylic on canvas painting measuring 36″ x 36″, showcases a suburban neighborhood from above. By eliminating intricate details, Silber-Delerive reduces the landscape to an abstract form, emphasizing geometric shapes and vibrant colors. This approach not only simplifies the scene but also highlights the graphic essence of the composition, allowing viewers to appreciate the underlying structure and rhythm of the suburban layout.
Silber-Delerive’s artistic journey began in Philadelphia, where she was born and raised. Her formal education at the Philadelphia College of Art provided a strong foundation in fine arts. She further honed her skills at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where she studied graphic design and silkscreen printing. This diverse educational background is evident in her work, which blends fine art techniques with a keen graphic sensibility.
One of the most distinctive features of Silber-Delerive’s paintings is her use of the flattened plane. This technique involves reducing the three-dimensional world into two-dimensional shapes, stripping away unnecessary details to focus on the core elements of the scene. The result is a composition that is both abstract and representational, offering a fresh perspective on familiar environments.
In “Nysa City Suburb,” for example, the houses are simplified into basic shapes and arranged in a way that emphasizes their patterns and relationships. The use of bold, flat colors ties the composition together, creating a cohesive and visually striking piece. This approach not only captures the essence of the suburban landscape but also invites viewers to consider the broader patterns and structures that define our surroundings.
Silber-Delerive’s work goes beyond mere abstraction. Each painting tells a story about the place it represents. Her aerial views often reveal patterns and relationships that are not immediately apparent from the ground, offering a new way to understand and appreciate these locations.
In her paintings, you can see the interplay between natural and man-made elements, the rhythm of urban planning, and the unique character of different neighborhoods. Whether depicting a bustling cityscape or a quiet suburban street, Silber-Delerive’s work captures the essence of each place, encouraging viewers to see the world with fresh eyes.
What sets Silber-Delerive apart is her ability to transform everyday scenes into compelling works of art. By taking an aerial perspective, she abstracts the familiar, revealing new patterns and connections. Her paintings are not just representations of places; they are explorations of form, color, and composition.
This transformation is evident in all her works, from urban centers to rural landscapes. Each piece is a study in abstraction, yet each retains a sense of place and identity. Silber-Delerive’s art challenges viewers to look beyond the surface and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around them.
Toni Silber-Delerive’s aerialscape paintings offer a unique and compelling view of the world. Her ability to transform everyday scenes into abstract compositions sets her apart in the contemporary art scene. With a strong foundation in fine arts and graphic design, she skillfully blends techniques to create works that are both visually striking and thought-provoking.
Through her use of the flattened plane and bold colors, Silber-Delerive captures the essence of the places she depicts, offering a fresh perspective on familiar landscapes. Her work invites viewers to see the world from a new angle, revealing the underlying patterns and structures that define our environments.
Silber-Delerive’s art is a testament to the power of perspective and the beauty of abstraction. By stripping away details and focusing on core elements, she creates compositions that are both simple and profound, offering a new way to see and appreciate the world around us.
