Jos Van De Ven is a modern artist with a classically inspired
style who considers painting to be an adventure and a search for
conceptual communication. Currently he likes to express a peaceful
state of mind using objects in a timeless setting. At the heart
of his work is the play and poetry of light and color. His work
may be "still", but it is alive.
"The richness of life lies within sincerity, elegance and a
bit of mystery: I like my paintings to reflect states of being and
my quest towards a better comprehension of man and his nobility,
and that they open a window for those who know how to look beyond
appearances", says Jos Van De Ven.
His artistic journey has taken many twists and turns. In his younger
days, he was devotee of the French Impressionists until he met Salvador
Dali at his home in Spain. Jos was only 23 at the time. He continued
with surrealism until he felt the need to break loose, painting
in a totally abstract way, wild, uncontrolled, very colourful. Still
not happy with his work, Jos studied art in Spain after which he
felt revitalised. Unfortunately, due to various circumstances in
his life at the time, he stopped painting for a while.
Years later, Jos picked up his paint brushes again, but did not
know what to paint. He had changed and was looking for something
that would allow him to express what he wanted say with his art.
He became interested in the techniques of the Old Masters and turned
to Dutch painter, Cornelis LeMair, for guidance. Under his tutelage,
Jos experimented with a variety of traditional materials and approaches.
His work took on another form. He liked the traditional techniques
but wanted to give his paintings a more contemporary look. Now he
has a definite signature and is very much appreciated.
Jos shows regularly at galleries throughout the Netherlands, France,
the USA and elsewhere. His work is included in numerous collections
and he regularly receives commissions from an international clientele.
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