Come September 15, 2024, the world of contemporary art will hold its breath as the doors of the Museum van Bommel van Dam in Venlo open to host a comprehensive exhibition in honour of the local legend, the realist artist, Evert Thielen.
Known for his monumental-sized polyptychs, Thielen, now 70 years old, connects eras past and present with his surreal compositions and symbolic themes. Often showcasing his beloved wife as his muse, his portraits and polyptychs capture a layered reality, full of double meanings and subtle art historical references.
The exhibition, titled “Evert Thielen – Opening the Shutters,” presents a fresh approach to viewing Thielen’s work, examining them in a historical and thematic context. The symbolic title also refers to the physical opening and closing of the polyptych panels, allowing visitors a holistic experience of all representations.
In a metaphorical sense, the exhibition seeks to ‘open’ Thielen’s oeuvre, exploring universal themes of desire and infinity that permeate his work. Answering the question of what makes his work overwhelmingly appealing, the exhibition delves into his hyper-realistic style, his connections with the Old Masters, and his contemporary perspective.
In celebration of Thielen’s life and work, the historical city centre of Venlo, the Maasdorp Arcen and Kloosterdorp Steyl will be themed around Evert Thielen for the duration of the exhibition. An outdoor exhibition, free to all, will showcase details from Thielen’s works alongside art from other local artists, cultivating a rich, cultural city program.
About Evert Thielen
Born on April 16, 1954, in Venlo, Thielen studied at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague and the painting technique of Jan van Eyck with a group of scientists at the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage in Brussels. His captivating exhibitions have attracted massive crowds over the years, cementing his place as a beloved local artist.
About Museum van Bommel van Dam
Located in the beautiful, renovated old post office on Keulsepoort in Venlo, Museum van Bommel van Dam is a modern contemporary art hub in North Limburg. Built on the art collection of founders Maarten and Reina van Bommel-van Dam, the museum boasts a broad collection of post-war art and an exciting calendar of exhibitions and public programs.
Join us at “Exhibition Evert Thielen – Opening the Shutters” from September 15, 2024, to February 23, 2025, as we explore, appreciate and celebrate the work of the remarkable Venlo-born artist, Evert Thielen.
