Theo Van Doesburg

Theo Van Doesburg was a Dutch artist, architect, writer, poet and designer.  He lived between 1883 and 1931 and is known to be the founder of the De Stijl movement.  Doesburg held his first exhibition in 1908 and from 1912 onwards he supported his works by writing in magazines. (Information taken from http://www.answers.com/topic/theo-van-doesburg)

The De Stijl movement was very particular as a style.  It made use of the primary colors and the non-colors (black, grey and white).  Works were usually done by putting together geometric shapes of different sizes and distinguishing them with a black bold outline and different vibrant colors.  The paintings that fall under the De Stijl movement and the furniture that falls under the movement are very similar.






Theo Van Doesburg's subject matter of his designs changed a lot over the years.  He regarded himself as a Modern artist and was very influenced by Vincent Van Gough.  After reading Wassily Kandinsky's 'Ruckblicke' he realized that there is a spiritual and abstract level in painting that originates from ones mind. 

Doesburg criticizes Futurism and the idea of speed and motion in design.  He realizes the importance of line and how line can make or destroy a design.  In 1922, Doesburg moves to Weimar with the intention of making an impression on The Bauhaus leader, Walter Gropius.  He tries to influence The Bauhaus and tries spread the De Stijl movement. (Information taken from Wikipedia)




Apart from being a painter, Theo Van Doesburg was also an architect.  He designed various houses for different architects.  Together with Georges Vantongerloo and Sophie Taeuber-Arp he designed the Café Aubette in Strasbourg (Image on the right).

Van Doesburg was also interested in the Dada movement.  He posted Dada poetry and Dada art.

Together with works of other designers of this style such as Wassily Kandinsky, many of his works can be found in the Guggenheim museums in Venice, New York, Bilbao and Abu Dhabi.