Composition abstraite, Circa 1966

Paul Steenhauer  

Since 1965, Paul Steenhauer has created a work that shows a coherent idea of his conception of the art of painting. It aims to represent the world as a perfect but elusive cosmos on a very limited scale.

It is a composition that evokes associations with images of the classical landscape because there is always a division in the construction of the painting: a horizon suggesting a land and a sky.

The landscape is only a preconceived idea of what we consider to be such. There is no life below or above the horizon. There are well-defined color spaces, sometimes displaying geometric shapes. The position of the horizon, which can be high, low, central or curved, defines the effect of these areas and invokes unfathomable spaces, regardless of the size of the painting.

Looking at the paintings, we are drawn into a cosmic world beyond the conception of a landscape. Geometric shapes as such punctuate the spaces and discreetly mix "nature" and human interference, achieving a symbiosis of the two.

The image is enhanced by the modulations of light, the range of coloring, the change of shape and the layered painting technique. This gives the work an atmosphere of supernatural and poetic mystery.

The careful workmanship, the particular use of colors, the surprising combination of landscape painting and constructivist elements give the work its specific and distinctive character.

Work is not easily accessible, but those who are truly absorbed cannot let go.