Karel Appel: The Early Years 1937-1957

Through his art, Karel Appel (1921-2006) seeks to capture "the secret movement of existence with the maximum of spontaneity, flexibility, and transparency." His work - from small collages to large paintings to monumental sculptures - is full of explosive color and joyful energy, reflecting his fascination with folk art and found objects and his strong sense of play.

This lavishly illustrated volume covers Appel's childhood, his work as a student at the Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam (here presented for the first time), his revolutionary works from his time with the COBRA group (which he helped found), and his informal paintings during the "Art Autre" years.