Engelbert L'Hoëst (1919-2008)

This painting by Engelbert L'Hoest is a wonderful example of mixed media art. 

Abstract and realistic
The combination of abstract elements with more realistic suggestions of nature gives the work a unique look. 
The artist has achieved this by using different styles and techniques within one composition.

Expressive sky
The sky is dynamically rendered with expressive brushstrokes. The clouds are painted in shades of white, pink and blue against a background of soft yellow and blue gradations.
Below the sky is a suggestion of a river landscape, with broad strokes of green and dark tones possibly representing earth or trees.

Colours and atmosphere
The layering of colours and textures adds depth to the work. The abstract depiction of nature leaves room for personal interpretation.
L'Hoest uses colour and shape to convey a certain mood and atmosphere, giving the painting an airy and open feel.

Mixed media
L'Hoest used different types of paint, such as acrylic and oil, to achieve variation in texture and drying time. This results in layering and depth in the painting.

Under the influence of modern painting, in particular the CoBrA movement, L’Hoëst produced colourful and expressive paintings after the war.

 

 

Exhibitions

Together with painters such as Gerard Grassère, Jan Stekelenburg and Douwe van der Zweep, he exhibited under the name 'Progressives' in 1954 in the Centraal Museum in Utrecht. He later exhibited at the Salon in Paris.

 

 

Post-War

Most of the years after the Second World War, L’Hoëst lived and worked in countries such as France, Spain and Portugal. In addition to his long sojourn abroad, his reclusive lifestyle and his introverted nature are the most important explanations for his relative unfamiliarity in the Netherlands.

 

 

Collectors

Many of his earlier works ended up with collectors all over the world, notably in Germany, America and China.

After various exhibitions were held in the Netherlands, including a retrospective exhibition at the Singer Museum in Laren, the art of L'Hoëst also began to be collected in the Netherlands.

 

 

Unique style

Engelbert L'Hoest created an extensive collection of works throughout his career. He is best known for his landscapes and cityscapes, often executed in pastels and oils. His style is characterised by expressive colours and dynamic compositions.

 

 

Museum Exhibition

Amersfoort, The Netherlands 2019.

In 2019, an exhibition on the occasion of the artist's 100th birthday is mounted in Museum Flehite (Amersfoort), including work that has never been shown before.