Ton Schulten, Dutch painter and graphic designer

Ton Schulten, born on April 25, 1938, in the picturesque town of Ootmarsum, Overijssel, Netherlands, is a celebrated Dutch painter renowned for his distinctive landscapes crafted with vibrant blocks of colour. His artistic journey, marked by both humble beginnings and profound personal transformation, has cemented his place as a significant figure in contemporary Dutch art.

Early Life and Artistic Foundations

Schulten grew up as one of six children in a baker's family, an upbringing that perhaps instilled in him a grounded perspective. His formal artistic education commenced at the Enschede Academy for Art and Industry, from which he graduated in 1962. Initially, his career path led him into the dynamic world of graphic design and advertising, a field where he honed his skills in composition, colour theory, and visual communication. While this period predated his signature painting style, it undoubtedly laid a foundational understanding of aesthetics that would later manifest in his unique approach to art.

A Transformative Event and the Birth of a Signature Style

The trajectory of Schulten's artistic expression took a dramatic and unforeseen turn following a severe car accident in Tenerife in 1991. This tragic incident claimed the life of a friend and left both Schulten and his wife, Ank Lammerink, in a coma. Emerging from such a profound and life-altering experience, Schulten found his artistic perspective irrevocably shifted. It was after this period of recovery and reflection that he wholeheartedly dedicated himself to painting, focusing on the enchanting landscapes of the Twente region, his homeland. Initially, his canvases exploded with primary colours, reflecting perhaps a raw, visceral response to life. Over time, his palette evolved, incorporating softer, more nuanced pastel shades, adding depth and emotional complexity to his vibrant block compositions.

Concensism: Defining a Unique Vision

In 2004, the distinctive nature of Ton Schulten's work received formal recognition and a unique designation from the German art critic Hartmut Rau, who coined the term Concensism to describe his style. This term aptly captures the essence of Schulten's art: landscapes distilled into concentrated, harmonious blocks of colour, where forms are simplified yet intensely evocative. His approach involves breaking down natural scenes into abstract, almost mosaic-like patterns, using bold, saturated hues to create a sense of depth, light, and movement. This technique allows viewers to experience the landscape not just visually, but almost experientially, through the interplay of pure colour and simplified form.

Recognition, Legacy, and Influence

Ton Schulten's unique artistic vision has garnered significant commercial success and widespread acclaim. His deep connection to his hometown is evident in Ootmarsum, which proudly hosts both his personal gallery and the Ton Schulten Museum, established in 1997. These venues serve as permanent showcases for his extensive body of work, attracting art enthusiasts from across the globe. Further cementing his standing, Schulten was knighted a member of the prestigious Order of Orange-Nassau in 2000, a high honour bestowed by the Dutch monarchy for exceptional contributions to society. The singularity and commercial value of his style were underscored in 2005 when Schulten successfully pursued legal action against an amateur painter for infringing upon his distinctive artistic approach, emphasizing the originality and protectability of his "Concensism" style.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ton Schulten

When and where was Ton Schulten born?
Ton Schulten was born on April 25, 1938, in Ootmarsum, Overijssel, Netherlands.
What is Ton Schulten's signature painting style?
He is known for painting landscapes using bright blocks of colour. This unique approach was later termed "Concensism" by art critic Hartmut Rau.
How did his style evolve?
Initially, he worked as a graphic designer. His distinctive painting style emerged after a severe car accident in 1991. He began painting landscapes of the Twente area, first using primary colours, and later incorporating pastel shades.
What is "Concensism"?
"Concensism" is the term coined by German art critic Hartmut Rau in 2004 to describe Ton Schulten's unique painting style, which features landscapes distilled into concentrated, harmonious blocks of vibrant colour.
Has Ton Schulten received any notable awards or recognition?
Yes, he was knighted a member of the Order of Orange-Nassau in 2000, a significant honour in the Netherlands. His work also enjoys commercial success, and he has a dedicated museum and gallery in his hometown of Ootmarsum.
Is there a museum dedicated to Ton Schulten's work?
Yes, the Ton Schulten Museum opened in 1997 in his hometown of Ootmarsum, Overijssel, housing a substantial collection of his paintings.