Karel Appel (1921-2006) was a renowned Dutch painter, sculptor, and poet, celebrated for his energetic and expressive style. Born in Amsterdam, Appel studied at the Rijksakademie van Beeldende Kunsten, where he was influenced by the post-war avant-garde movements. In 1948, he co-founded the CoBrA group (named after the cities Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam) alongside artists like Asger Jorn and Constant Nieuwenhuys. This collective emphasized spontaneity, experimentation, and the use of vivid, unrestrained colors. CoBrA disintegrated within several years, but this only formed the start of Appel’s long artistic career, in which he lived and worked all over the world.
Appel’s work is distinguished by its bold use of color, dynamic brushstrokes, and childlike, primal imagery. He often drew inspiration from children’s art and the raw, unfiltered expressions of emotion found therein. His paintings, characterized by their vibrant, almost chaotic compositions, sought to break away from traditional forms and conventions, embodying a sense of freedom and spontaneity.
Throughout his career, Appel worked across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media. His art was exhibited globally, and he received numerous accolades, establishing himself as a significant figure in the post-war European avant-garde. Appel’s works are housed in prestigious collections such as the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
Karel Appel’s influence extended beyond the visual arts into various cultural spheres. He explored poetry and collaborated with writers and poets. In the later years of his career, Appel continued to experiment with different techniques and materials, pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the art world, inspiring countless artists and cementing his place as a pivotal figure in modern art history. Appel’s legacy is celebrated for its fearless creativity and the vibrant, expressive energy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
It was through Chinese artist and mutual friend Walasse Ting that Nico Delaive first met Karel Appel. Ting and Appel had become friends in the 1950s and now – in the 1980s- Nico got to know him as well and quickly build a deep and long-lasting friendship. In that time Nico had arranged a studio space for Ting in Amsterdam and Karel Appel and fellow CoBrA artist Corneille would often join Ting in his studio to paint together.
Appel, renowned internationally for his vibrant and expressive style, was already a towering figure in the art world. Delaive, drawn to the raw energy and emotional intensity of Appel’s work felt a strong urge to collaborate.
In 1992 Gallery Delaive opened its first solo-exhibition of Karel Appel in Amsterdam, showing a series of paintings Appel created in Italy and Monaco. In the following years they continued to work together, and Nico would often visit the artist in his studios in Connecticut and Tuscany. Ever since then Nico has specialized himself in the work of Karel Appel and helps preserve his legacy as one of the most important Dutch artists of the Post-War period.
