Geenens Robert

Robert Geenens was a Belgian artist who was born in Ghent in 1896 and who died in Antwerp in 1976. He was a painter, draftsman and designer of theater sets. Education at the Academy in Rotterdam (1916-1918) and at the Academy in Ghent under the direction of J. Delvin (1918-1919). Was a sailor from 1919 to 1928 with the degree of first lieutenant long circumnavigation. Then was taught in Rotterdam by D. Van Augeren. Gave up the sea and exhibited for the first time in Ghent in 1928. Settled in Antwerp in 1930. Initially leaned towards magical realism and evolved towards more lyrical and magical abstraction, without however completely abandoning figuration. Realized landscapes, seascapes, portraits, allegorical compositions and still lifes. Adds symbolistic elements to his fantastic landscapes, such as eagles and female figures. His works reflect surrealism, dream, symbolism and fantasy. In 1958 co-founder of the CIAFMA (Center International de l'Actualité Fantastique et Magique) and of the Belgian Fantasy Magic Group, inspired by Aubin Pasque. Work in the Museums in Antwerp and Ostend, among others. Mentioned in CRICK, BAS II and Two centuries of signatures of Belgian artists. Source: Piron