35 Facts About De Kooning

Early Life and Education

Willem de Kooning, a Dutch-American abstract expressionist, had a fascinating life that shaped his art. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early years.

1. Born on April 24, 1904, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, de Kooning grew up in a working-class family.
2. His parents divorced when he was just five years old, a rare occurrence at the time.
3. At age 12, de Kooning began an apprenticeship with a commercial art and decorating firm.
4. He attended the Rotterdam Academy of Fine Arts and Techniques, where he honed his skills in drawing and painting.
5. In 1926, de Kooning stowed away on a British freighter to reach the United States, arriving in Virginia.

Career Beginnings

De Kooning's early career in America was marked by struggle and perseverance. Here are some key moments from his initial years as an artist.

6. He initially worked as a house painter and carpenter to make ends meet.
7. In the 1930s, de Kooning joined the Works Progress Administration (WPA) Federal Art Project, which provided him with a steady income.
8. During his time with the WPA, he met other influential artists like Jackson Pollock and Arshile Gorky.
9. De Kooning's first solo exhibition took place in 1948 at the Charles Egan Gallery in New York City.
10. His early works were heavily influenced by Cubism and Surrealism.

Rise to Fame

De Kooning's unique style and innovative techniques soon garnered attention. Let's explore some pivotal moments that catapulted him to fame.

11. In the late 1940s, he began experimenting with abstract expressionism, a movement he would become synonymous with.
12. His "Women" series, started in the early 1950s, became some of his most famous and controversial works.
13. De Kooning's painting "Woman I" took nearly two years to complete and is considered a masterpiece of abstract expressionism.
14. In 1953, he had a major retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, solidifying his reputation.
15. He won the Logan Medal of the Arts in 1951, recognizing his significant contributions to modern art.

Personal Life

De Kooning's personal life was as colorful as his art. Here are some interesting facts about his relationships and lifestyle.

16. He married Elaine Fried, a fellow artist, in 1943. Their relationship was tumultuous but deeply influential for both.
17. The couple separated in 1957 but never divorced, maintaining a close bond until Elaine's death in 1989.
18. De Kooning struggled with alcoholism for much of his life, which affected both his personal and professional relationships.
19. He had a daughter, Lisa, with Joan Ward, a woman he had an affair with during his marriage.
20. Despite his struggles, de Kooning remained a prolific artist, creating some of his most famous works during periods of personal turmoil.

Later Years and Legacy

De Kooning's later years were marked by continued creativity and recognition. Let's look at some key moments from this period.

21. In the 1970s, he moved to East Hampton, Long Island, where he found a new sense of peace and inspiration.
22. His later works, characterized by bold colors and fluid forms, showed a departure from his earlier, more aggressive style.
23. In 1984, de Kooning was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, which gradually affected his ability to work.
24. Despite his illness, he continued to paint with the help of assistants until the early 1990s.
25. De Kooning passed away on March 19, 1997, at the age of 92.

Artistic Influence and Recognition

De Kooning's impact on the art world is undeniable. Here are some facts about his influence and the recognition he received.

26. He is considered one of the leading figures of abstract expressionism, alongside artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko.
27. De Kooning's work has been exhibited in major museums and galleries worldwide, including the Tate Modern and the Guggenheim.
28. His painting "Interchange" sold for $300 million in 2015, making it one of the most expensive artworks ever sold.
29. De Kooning received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964.
30. His innovative techniques, such as the use of gestural brushstrokes and the incorporation of everyday materials, have influenced generations of artists.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond his well-known achievements, de Kooning's life was filled with interesting tidbits. Here are some lesser-known facts about the artist.

31. He was an avid sailor and often found inspiration for his paintings while out on the water.
32. De Kooning had a great sense of humor and was known for his witty remarks and playful personality.
33. He once said, "Flesh is the reason oil paint was invented," highlighting his fascination with the human form.
34. Despite his fame, de Kooning remained humble and often downplayed his success.
35. His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists, making him a true icon of modern art.

Final Brushstrokes on De Kooning

Willem de Kooning's life and work left an indelible mark on the art world. His abstract expressionism challenged norms and pushed boundaries. Born in the Netherlands, he moved to the U.S., where he became a pivotal figure in the New York art scene. His pieces, like "Woman I," sparked both admiration and controversy, showcasing his unique style and bold approach.

De Kooning's influence extends beyond his paintings. He inspired countless artists and continues to be studied and celebrated. His ability to blend abstraction with figuration set him apart, making his work timeless.

Understanding de Kooning means appreciating his relentless pursuit of artistic freedom. His legacy reminds us that art isn't just about beauty; it's about expression, emotion, and breaking the mold. Dive into his world, and you'll find a treasure trove of creativity and innovation.