In this piece, Henk Jan Sanderman transforms a panda into a gravity-defying acrobat. Crafted from painted porcelain on canvas, the panda is shown tumbling headfirst into the picture plane, frozen mid-motion in a curious blend of painting and sculpture.
Sanderman’s style here highlights the tension between balance and whimsy, reminding us of the fragile line between playfulness and control. The panda’s rounded form, rendered in stark black and white, contrasts beautifully against the minimal, pale background. The simplicity of the scene heightens the sense of humour while giving the subject monumental presence.
The palette is pared down—crisp white, deep black, soft grey, and a touch of pale blue at the base of the canvas—enhancing the sculpture’s bold silhouette. This understated colour use makes the work feel clean and contemporary, while the panda’s playful pose injects a sense of joy. “UPSIDE DOWN” invites viewers to smile while also considering the freedom of breaking boundaries.

