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Willem De-Kooning Biography
Willem de Kooning, a towering figure in the world of modern art, was born on April 24, 1904, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. His journey from a working-class family in Rotterdam to becoming one of the most influential artists of the 20th century is a testament to his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the Abstract Expressionist movement.
De Kooning's early life was marked by upheaval; his parents divorced when he was about five years old, and he was raised by his mother and a stepfather. Despite these challenges, de Kooning showed an early interest in art. At the age of 12, he left school to begin an apprenticeship at a design and decoration firm, simultaneously enrolling in night classes at the Rotterdam Academy of Fine Arts and Techniques. This dual exposure to practical and academic training laid the foundation for his artistic development.
In 1926, seeking new opportunities and driven by a desire to engage with the burgeoning art scene in the United States, de Kooning stowed away on a ship bound for America. He settled in Hoboken, New Jersey, initially supporting himself as a house painter before moving to Manhattan, where he became immersed in the vibrant artistic community. It was here that de Kooning formed significant friendships with key figures such as Arshile Gorky and John Graham, who would greatly influence his work.
De Kooning's early works were characterized by a blend of figuration and abstraction, reflecting the influence of the School of Paris and Mexican muralists. However, by the 1940s, he began to develop a more distinct style that fused these elements in innovative ways. His paintings from this period, marked by energetic brushwork and a bold use of color, began to attract attention within the New York art scene.
The 1950s saw de Kooning achieve critical and commercial success, particularly with his "Woman" series. These paintings, characterized by their aggressive forms and impulsive technique, sparked controversy and debate but ultimately cemented de Kooning's reputation as a leading figure in the Abstract Expressionist movement. Despite this success, de Kooning continued to evolve as an artist, exploring new themes and techniques throughout his career.
De Kooning's later work showed an increasing preoccupation with landscape, and he experimented with sculpture as well. In 1963, he moved to East Hampton, Long Island, where the natural surroundings inspired a new direction in his work. His paintings from this period are lighter and more fluid, reflecting the influence of the landscape on his artistic vision.
Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in the 1980s, de Kooning continued to paint until his health no longer allowed it. He passed away on March 19, 1997, in East Hampton, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and challenge artists and art lovers alike.
De Kooning's legacy is defined not only by his contributions to Abstract Expressionism but also by his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation. His willingness to embrace change and explore new possibilities in his work made him a pivotal figure in the transition from figurative to abstract art. Today, de Kooning's paintings are celebrated for their emotional depth, technical mastery, and their profound impact on the course of modern art.
Willem De-Kooning Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
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