Born 1950 in Eindhoven, where he still lives, Daniëls is an important figure in the history of Dutch art and his unique style continues to influence a younger generation of painters including Peter Doig, Chris Ofili and Marlene Dumas. The idea for the exhibition arose from interest shown in his work by so many other painters following the inclusion of three of his works in Archipeinture: Painters Build Architecture, a group exhibition at Camden Arts Centre in 2006.
Daniëls has described his paintings as ‘a combination of visual poetry on one hand and painting on the other’ (René Daniëls, 1983). They make reference to art, music, literature, performance and architecture as well as forming a critique of the art establishment and Daniëls’ position within it. Defying simple interpretation or definition, Daniëls’ paintings are sketchy and open, expressive and fluid. Looking at the relationship between language and image, visual puns and word play, the paintings and their titles invite a dialogue with the viewer.
In many of the paintings Daniëls uses basic everyday motifs such as hats, chimneys and skateboards. One such shape, which resembles a bow tie, occurs frequently; as a simple interior space, hung with paintings or punctuated with windows. Using this simple symbol, through scale or painted surface, he encourages the opening-up of imagined spaces and places within the work.
René Daniëls: Painting on Unknown Languages was organised by Camden Arts Centre with curatorial advice from Paul Andriesse.
Wednesday 17 November, 7.00 – 8.30pm
Richard Kirwan, artist and Senior Tutor at the Royal Academy Schools, discussed the work of René Daniëls.
Sunday 28 November, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Jenni Lomax, Director of Camden Arts Centre, led a tour of the exhibition on its final day.
Teachers and educational professionals were invited to join us for the launch of the latest activity guide. The evening was hosted by Abigail Hunt and a team of volunteers, discussing how you can use the activity guide to explore Never the Same River (Possible Futures, Probable Pasts). The event was followed by the introductory exhibition talk and preview.
![René Daniëls Het Romeins Wastafeltje, gesprek over schilderkunst[The Roman Wax Tablet, a Discussion about Painting] 1983 oil on canvas 140 x 180 cm © the artist, courtesy Stedelijk Museum](https://d1pcposaq9vxjx.cloudfront.net/production/uploads/2021/12/WEBCSM117.jpg)
![René Daniëls Hollandse Nieuwe [New Dutch Herring] 1982 oil on canvas 160 x 190 cm © the artist, courtesy Tate](https://d1pcposaq9vxjx.cloudfront.net/production/uploads/2021/12/WEBDutch-herring-T11858_H.jpg)
