Jan Van Den Abbeel, Projekt S, 1975, Gouache on Paper, Framed

Projekt s’ geometric painting by Jan Van Den Abbeel (1943-2018)

This work is gouache on paper.

The work is signed ‘Projekt y’ and with the artists own signiature.

The frame is original with new passepartout and artglass.

Dimensions Art work:

Height: 52cm

Width: 52cm

Dimensions Frame:

Height: 73cm

Width: 73cm

Depth: 3cm

The work came direct from the artists estate.

Jan Van Den Abbeel

Jan van den Abbeele was born on July 16, 1943, in Denderbelle and died on February 12, 2018, in Ghent. He was a prominent Belgian painter and graphic artist, and is considered one of the most important representatives of (neo)constructivist art in Belgium.

Education: Beginning in 1959, he studied as a boarding student at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (K.A.S.K.) in Ghent, where he earned his degree in higher art education in the field of “Decorative Arts” in 1964, with high honours.

In 1965, Van den Abbeele turned his back on figurative imagery and evolved toward constructivism through strictly geometric structures. His work is characterized by: A grid of 36 beams: These beam forms were used to express three-dimensional constructions. Through the repetition and superposition of formal elements, he created rhythmic, dynamic compositions with a high degree of tension.

Three-dimensionality and optical effects: His work offered a new spatial experience, in which perception changed depending on the viewer’s position. The arrangement of his geometric constructions was based on mathematical principles and his personal vision of space, color, and volume.

Use of color: He used intense, contrasting colors such as purple, orange, red, blue, and yellow. Acrylic paint was his medium of choice, as it allowed him to create smooth surfaces.

Influences: His work was influenced by travels to the East, particularly Indonesia, where he was inspired by circles and the use of strong paper made from cotton rags. These travels also led him to photography, which he devoted himself to from the late 1980s onward.

In 1966, Yves De Smet, together with Jan van den Abbeele and Willy Plompen, founded the Plus Group. This group sought to create a total, multisensory experience, with a focus on integrating art into the living environment. The group disbanded in 1968, and Van den Abbeele broke ties with Plompen and De Smet for good in 1969.