Stedelijk Museum | Karel Appel

The Appel Wall, Stedelijk website

Another artist that had their work exhibited at the museum was Karel Appel, and I was instantly taken with it. The childish, messy appearance of the paintings really appealed to me. They seemed very immediate, straight from Appel's head, and didn't come off like they needed to be understood or dissected by the viewer.

This huge wall mural was painted in 1956, and has been restored by the museum. Even though it was from over 60 years ago it looked so new and vibrant.

poster, 1962

Amongst Appel's inspirations are primitive art, children's drawings, and the artist Jean Dubuffet (art brut). Although his work faced a lot of negative criticism during the early years, I think it could very well appeal to contemporary audiences due to the graphic appearance. I like how the work isn't elitist, or staunch in its attitude. It's just expressive and, I think, made on a gut feeling.

Two Owls and Untitled