Unique ID #424 size 50x40 cm Oil on canvas

Toon Gielen (1935 - 2018) - A Life Devoted to Education and Art

Toon Gielen was a versatile artist whose artistic journey ran parallel to a lifelong dedication to special education. For over four decades, he passionately taught theory subjects to students in need of special attention and assistance, nurturing their growth and development as individuals. In the early 80s, he made a remarkable foray into the world of art. He embarked on his artistic quest at the art academy in Overpelt Belgium, where he pursued various courses that honed his skills as a visual artist. His creative adventure resulted in a wide array of works, not confined to a single medium but masterfully encompassing woodworking, plaster, clay, polyester, and even bronze. His art reflected an unparalleled versatility. From over 200 sculptures, some immortalized in bronze at the renowned foundry in Asten, Netherlands, to an abundance of drawings, paintings, and artistic creations on paper, he embraced a broad spectrum of expressive forms. Within his painting, he mastered techniques such as oil paint, gouache, and watercolor with admirable craftsmanship. His drawings were equally diverse, ranging from pen, colored pencil, charcoal, gouache, and chalk to crayon. He displayed not only technical prowess but also a profound understanding of various styles, with influences from Warhol, Picasso, Cézanne, Dali, Monet, and others seeping into his work. Although he exhibited only sporadically during his lifetime, his artistic legacy gained the recognition it deserved only after his passing in 2018. His works were first introduced to the market then, and his initial sculpture exhibition was an overwhelming success, with all works acquired by enthusiastic buyers. His life path was a captivating journey through both the realms of education and art, his multifaceted talent and dedication to creativity leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience his work.