VEG #102 Lex Horn: Beeldend kunstenaar in de wederopbouw
Lex Horn (1916 —1968) was one of the most prominent and versatile visual artists of the reconstruction era. Horn was appreciated by colleagues, clients and architects and made many monumental works in Amsterdam's urban expansion districts. This varied from murals and tapestries to mosaics, tile panels, sgraffitos, concrete reliefs and other art forms. More than 40 of these works were carried out in Amsterdam, often on behalf of the municipality.
The reconstruction period was unique because of new urban development, major construction and the stimulation of monumental art on new buildings. This led to cooperation between clients, urban planners, architects and visual artists and to experiments with new building materials, new insights and a new artistic 'language'.
Around 75% of Horn's work has now disappeared due to demolition, even if it was commissioned by the municipality or the Government Buildings Service, without complying with the protective measures. Slowly, there is a growing awareness that conservation is extremely necessary. Recently, two of Horn's large sgraffitos were restored and reinstalled in the new bicycle shed at Amsterdam Central Station.
On Sunday, April 6, at 3.30 pm, the Van Eesteren Gesprek #102 will take place in which Linda Horn, daughter of the artist, will present her new book Lex Horn - Beeldend kunstenaar in de wederopbouw. Linda had access to the diaries and other personal documents so that she could paint a clear and penetrating picture of her father's work and life.
Please note: This talk will be given in Dutch.
