Corneille

Corneille, also known as Guillaume Cornelis van Beverloo, was a Dutch artist born in 1922 in Liège, Belgium, to Dutch parents. After studying drawing at the Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam, he became self-taught in the field of painting. In 1948, alongside Karel Appel, Asger Jorn, Dotremont and Constant, he co-founded the Cobra group in Paris, thus becoming part of an avant-garde artistic movement. Inspired by figures like Paul Klee and Joan Miró , Corneille turns to African art during his numerous trips to the continent. This African influence is found in his works, initially non-figurative, which gradually evolved towards imaginary landscapes in warm and vibrant tones, where the woman and the bird occupy a central place, symbolizing beauty and freedom respectively.

The representation of women, joy of living and beauty characterize Corneille's work, where organic patterns mingle with a palette of bright and expressive colors . For him, the woman embodies sensuality and grace, while the bird symbolizes vital energy and freedom. This symbiosis between nature and human life is at the heart of his artistic expression, making him a master of abstraction. lyrical. His death in September 2010 marks the end of a remarkable artistic career, but his legacy lives on through his works exhibited in prestigious museums across Europe, such as the Center Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Museum of Modern Art in Paris, the Cobra Museum. in Amstelveen and at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.

Beyond his artistic influence, Corneille now rests alongside Vincent van Gogh , his compatriot and source of inspiration, in the Auvers-sur-Oise cemetery in France. His work continues to be celebrated for its ability to capture the essence of life and nature in vibrant and expressive compositions. His presence in the permanent collections of major European museums attests to his status as a major artist of the 20th century, whose work continues to fascinate and inspire future generations.