Untitled

Peter Schenk (Amersfoort, 1944 - 2011). Peter Schenk has been counted among the top lyrical abstract artists in the Netherlands for years. His creative development is constantly changing due to the various atmospheres and elements he encounters on his visits to countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bonaire. One of his favourite places is Japan, where he alternates his stay with much travelling, working, teaching and exhibiting. He has been creating his works in the famous Japanese rice [kozo] paper there for years. Schenk's self-created artworks have played a leading role in his artistic career over the past 12 years. The resulting, often monochrome compositions, in many shades of warm white, exude a Western take on Japanese simplicity. With these works, Schenk demonstrates his drive, sensitivity to materials and openness to experiment. Besides rice paper, Schenk paints on linen and paper in a strong colourite, where the application of colour alludes to feeling. Themes such as Blue moon, Free Spirit, Oysters, Three Elements and Haiku recur alternately in his work. In his washed ink drawings, we recognise the organic lines of shapes and figures. In Peter Schenk's world, there is no difference between figurative and abstract; his world is one of expression and energy. He trained at the Amsterdam Academy. The artist's oeuvre is extensive and his signature unmistakable. His 'dynamic monumental art', as he himself typifies his work, stands for large forms with agile elements. Spatial, basic, energetic and sensual are key words. Schenk is an artist who constantly renews his artistic approach. This happens partly under the influence of the atmospheres and elements of the various countries he visits. A favourite destination, for instance, is Japan. With Schenk, figuration and abstraction blend smoothly. Comes with a book about him.