Paul Cleempoel abstract oak sculpture Belgium 1975

This abstract-shaped solid oak wooden hand carved sculpture by Paul Cleempoel, crafted in his own atelier in Belgium in 1975, stands as a powerful testament to his fascination with African art. Made from dark brown stained solid oak wood, the sculpture embodies a sense of organic fluidity and raw beauty, characteristic of Cleempoel’s artistic vision. It rests on a white laminated wooden plank, the white pedestal is not included, but can be purchased optional. Paul Cleempoel, a multifaceted artist known for his work as a painter, sculptor, and poet, drew significant inspiration from African art, much like his 20th-century contemporaries, the Spanish painter Pablo Picasso and the French painter Henri Matisse. Both Picasso and Matisse’s admiration for African art influenced the development of their cubist styles, and these same influences can be seen in Cleempoel’s works.

Cleempoel’s sculptures and paintings transform his living room and exhibition space into an immersive African atmosphere, reflecting his deep appreciation and reverence for the art forms that inspired him. This particular sculpture, with its abstract form and dark, rich wood, captures the essence of his artistic journey and his ability to blend cultural influences into a unique, cohesive vision. It is a piece that not only represents Cleempoel’s mastery of his craft but also his enduring tribute to the profound impact of African art on modern artistic expression.

Provenance; Purchased directly from the artists estate.