Generatiegenoot van Appel en Corneille – Constant
In the vibrant world of modern art, two prominent names that often come up are Karel Appel and Corneille. These two artists were part of the influential avant-garde movement known as CoBrA, which emerged in the aftermath of World War II. While Appel and Corneille’s contributions to the art world are widely celebrated, it is important not to overlook the work of another equally talented generatiegenoot (contemporary) – Constant.
Constant Anton Nieuwenhuys, known simply as Constant, was a Dutch artist who played a crucial role in the CoBrA movement. Born in Amsterdam in 1920, Constant’s artistic journey began in the 1940s when he became associated with a group of experimental artists who sought to break away from the traditional norms of art. This led him to co-found the CoBrA movement alongside Appel, Corneille, and other like-minded artists.
Constant’s artistic style was characterized by a combination of abstraction and figuration, often depicting architectural structures and urban landscapes. He believed that art should reflect the social and political realities of the time, and his works often contained elements of critique and social commentary.
One of Constant’s most famous works is his New Babylon project, which he started in the late 1950s and continued to develop throughout the 1960s. New Babylon envisioned a future society where work and leisure were abolished, and humans would be free to engage in creative pursuits. Constant created intricate architectural models and drawings that depicted this utopian society, capturing the imagination of many art enthusiasts and intellectuals.
While Appel and Corneille’s works often focused on the expression of raw emotions and the use of bright, bold colors, Constant approached art from a more intellectual and ideological standpoint. He was interested in exploring the relationship between art, society, and the built environment, drawing inspiration from urban planning, architecture, and social theories.
Throughout his career, Constant worked in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and graphic design. His works can be found in museums and art collections worldwide, and his influence on contemporary art cannot be overstated.
Sadly, Constant passed away in 2005, leaving behind a remarkable artistic legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences. While Appel and Corneille may have garnered more attention in the art world, Constant’s contributions should not be overlooked. His ability to seamlessly blend abstraction and figuration, coupled with his thought-provoking social commentary, makes him a generatiegenoot that deserves recognition alongside his CoBrA contemporaries.