The world in my eyes. Let the mind do the walking and let the body do the talking (Depeche Mode)

The world in my eyes.
Let the mind do the walking and let the body do the talking (Depeche Mode).

Organised Chaos Inspired by Consciousness and the Universe  

Driven by a profound curiosity about consciousness and its place in the universe, my art seeks to translate the intangible into vivid expressions. Each brushstroke is a dialogue with psychology, philosophy, self-discovery, and science—the foundation of my creativity. My poetic musings, shared on Instagram (@charlyspoetry), often inspire the titles of my works, guiding daring visual explorations of emotion, chaos, peace, and beauty. These paintings invite viewers into a dynamic interplay of forces, reflecting the cosmos' infinite mysteries.

A Global Artistic Journey

My artistic path was profoundly shaped by 12 years in Africa, particularly my time in Senegal. Under the mentorship of renowned artist Moussa Diop (Sambalaye), I discovered expressionism and learned to infuse emotion and spirit into my work. Sambalaye has been professor for 13 years in “Ecole Nationale Des Beaux Arts” in Paris. He was a friend and my master. His legacy remains alive in my creations, honoring his influence with every brushstroke.

The Eternal Impulse to Create

From childhood, creation has been my essence. After returning to Belgium in 2007, life pulled me away from painting, but in 2024, reclaiming a studio reignited my passion. Today, my art is both a practice and philosophy—a celebration of life, a meditation on the universe, and an invitation to explore the worlds within ourselves.


The uploaded works are impressive and exhibit a clear expressive and abstract style. Here is a description of the characteristics and style of these artworks, viewed from the perspective of an art connoisseur:

Style and Technique

  1. Abstract Expressionism: These pieces are strongly inspired by abstract expressionism, a movement centered on spontaneous, expressive, and often emotionally charged creations. The works evoke powerful emotions through color, texture, and composition.

  2. Mixed Media and 3D Elements: The artworks incorporate three-dimensional elements, using fabrics, knots, or objects that protrude from the canvas. This gives them a sculptural quality and enhances their dynamic nature.

  3. Color Palette: Each piece employs a bold color palette that amplifies its emotional intensity. From vibrant primary colors like red, yellow, and blue to darker tones contrasted with whites and accents of purple and green, the colors appear deliberately chaotic, evoking a sense of raw energy and freedom.

  4. Movement and Energy: The paintings seem to capture motion, thanks to splashes, strokes, and scratches that radiate in all directions. This creates a feeling of chaos and dynamism, as if the piece has frozen a moment of explosion or transformation.

  5. Text Fragments: The inclusion of text in some pieces adds a layered meaning. The words, often fleeting or cryptic, seem to encourage the viewer to reflect on themes like time, space, or inner conflict.

  6. Industrial Aesthetic: The use to integrate unconventional materials, such as inner tubes, tools and tire prints, adds an industrial edge to the works.

Influences

These artworks are deeply influenced by the artist's education in Africa, drawing inspiration from the vibrant and richly colored compositions characteristic of the African contemporary art scene. The works create a unique fusion between African contemporary abstract art and modern industrialism techniques. Additionally, influences from artists like Sambalaye (Senegal), Jackson Pollock (expressive splatters) and Robert Rauschenberg (use of industrial and found objects) can be seen, alongside a deep-rooted fusion between continents. This makes Karel Geerts works very unique.

Themes and Interpretation

  • Explosive Emotion: Each piece appears to represent an inner struggle or powerful emotional outburst. The use of canvases that are knotted or deformed suggests tension and complexity.

  • Spatial Dynamics: Through the 3D elements and splashes, the work not only projects outward but invites the viewer to engage with it from multiple angles.

  • Rawness and Honesty: The textures and imperfections in the canvases speak of raw honesty, as if the artist has deliberately relinquished control to let the work tell its own story.

Conclusion

These are powerful, bold pieces that engage the viewer not only visually but also emotionally. They invite interpretation and give the impression of telling a deeply personal story. Perfect for modern galleries or an audience seeking something original and expressive.

CV

Karel Geerts
Born in 1966, Antwerp - Belgium
Resides in Edegem - Belgium
Workspace in an industrial area in Kontich - Belgium

Education/Training:
1999 - 2000: Dakar - Senegal: 
Shared workspace for two years with Mousa Diop (Sambalaye) who has been
teacher in ‘Ecole Nationale Des Beaux Arts’ in Paris for 13 years. He was my master, private teacher
but more importantly a friend.

Selected Collective Exhibitions:
1999: Dakar - Senegal: Blue Moon Cafe
1999: Dakar - Senegal: Immeuble Kebe
2000: Dakar - Senegal: Expo 2000

2025: Brussels - Belgium: Tours & Taxis: When architecture meets art