Robbert Fortgens (1960, NL) creates artworks that are abstract, radiating an exceptional energy, coming from a stage in life where the artist fully opts for the limits of the very essential. This major crossroad demands a confrontation of fear and loss, evolution and total focus, feeling extremely driven yet relaxed.
Although his work appears modern, one slowly gets the feeling that it contains an archaic strength that is different from the avant-garde style. Fortgens initially painted still life paintings with beautiful realistic fruits and graceful female figures. However, he noted how the conventions of a profession influence a painting and how this can be oppressive – how creating artistic content and depth can get in the way of a sharp vision.
This inspiring and freeing thought of removal forms the center of Fortgens latest works as it gives him the opportunity to do what he had dreamed of all his life – namely to paint what he feels inside. Progress in his body of works now means to let go.
Physically challenging, Robbert chooses to immerse himself completely in the build up of his works, layer upon layer, as to let the creation fully unfold and flow. Each colour makes way for the next one, life upon life, being very present but not dominating, layers of the earth, the soul and the mind.