René Mels (1909-1977) - Composition abstraite gestuelle

René Mels (1909-1977) – Gesture-based abstract composition – Ink and wash on paper – Signed and dated 1976 – Belgian School / Lyric Abstraction

Artist: René Mels (pseudonym of René Meulemans, 1909 Herent – 1977 Kraainem)

Technique: India ink and wash (watercolour) on paper

Signed and dated “Mels 76” at bottom left

Work on paper, typical of his late graphic period

Date: 1976
Dimensions: 50 × 40 cm (with mount)
Condition: Very good overall. Work sold unframed (mount included).

Description:
Powerful gestural abstract composition characteristic of René Mels’ late style. On a background of watercolour wash in blue, grey, and ochre tones, the artist unfolds a dense network of bold black hatch marks, energetic strokes, and dynamic lines that create a swirling movement and great graphic tension.
The gesture is free, nervous, and controlled, producing a work full of vitality, rhythm, and pure abstract expressiveness.
This piece from 1976 beautifully illustrates his mastery of ink drawing and his lyrical approach to abstraction.

Artist biography:
René Mels (1909-1977), pseudonym of René Meulemans, is a major Belgian artist of the post-war period. Trained at the University of Leuven (Louvain) and then in Brussels, he developed an intense graphic practice. After 1945, he worked in Paris in the studios of Stanley William Hayter and Johnny Friedlaender.
Known for his abstract and semi-figurative compositions as well as his series of etchings, he was an active member of the Belgian School. His works are in the collections of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (Brussels) and the Leuven Museum.