Piet Ouborg - Retrospective

From realism to abstraction

Piet Ouborg's painting style developed significantly over the years. He began with portraits, figure studies and landscapes, later followed by works with impressionist, cubist and expressionist influences. To break away from these styles, he also created still lifes.

His time in the Dutch East Indies left a deep mark on his art. Masks and Eastern symbolism appeared regularly in his work, which later transitioned into calligraphic forms and abstract compositions.

Influence of modern movements

During a period of leave in the Netherlands around 1930, Ouborg was inspired by modern art movements such as surrealism and abstract art. From that time onwards, this influence is clearly visible in his oeuvre.

During the Second World War, he made the transition from figuration to abstraction, an important turning point that would define his later work.

Recognition and legacy

In 1950, Ouborg received the Jacob Maris Prize for his painting Father and Son. The prize led to much discussion at the time, but made him a well-known Dutch artist overnight.

After his death, his influence remained palpable. In 1990, the Ouborg Prize was established in The Hague, named after Piet Ouborg himself. This prize is awarded to contemporary artists who, like him, push boundaries and innovate within the visual arts.

Thus, the spirit of Piet Ouborg lives on – as a pioneer, innovator and lasting source of inspiration within the Dutch art world.