
Karel Appel (1921–2008) was what is often described as a ‘physical’ painter. The confrontation with the surface to be painted, the dynamics of the gestures, the generosity of the colours used were essential for him. In the early 1990s, in his studio on the US east coast, he painted a powerful group of works entitled Eternal Space of Being. In a luminous setting of bright colours placed in the centre of a black background, a feminine, masculine or indeterminate human figure is seen upright, or floating as if in a native environment.
Karel Appel is a Dutch artist born in Amsterdam in 1921. From 1940 to 1943 he studied at the State Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam, then quickly embarked on the road to freedom. After working with the experimental group Reflex, in autumn 1948 in Paris he became one of the founders of the CoBrA group.
His works have been the subject of many exhibitions around the world and form part of the collections of prestigious museums: Stedelijk Museum (Amsterdam), Tate Modern (London), Centre Georges Pompidou (Paris), MAM Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris (Paris), Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (New York), National Museum of Art (Osaka), Musée d’art moderne et d’art contemporain (Nice), and more.




A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services