Eric De Becker was born in Brussels. Degree in visual arts at St Lukas Brussels and the Higher State School of Fine Arts in Anderlecht (graphics and degree in history of art). Lives and works in the north of Antwerp. The work is strongly influenced by de Kooning, Twombly and Robert Rauschenberg. He is a convinced follower of "Tachisme" (art informel) with Hans Hartung and Pierre Soulages as examples.

Exhibitions

The 80s and beyond: travelling exhibitions at the Banque De France, Paris - the National Bank of Belgium Brussels. Curated by ASLK Bank - Belgium.

2014 - Antwerp, Belgium - Galerie Louisa – abstract works

2015 - Beijing, China - The Black Works – 3 months residency through Radisson Blue hotels chain

2016 - Paris, France - Musée du Louvre - in collaboration with Paks Gallery, Austria – abstract works

2016 - Oostmalle, Belgium - Local art collaboration – abstract works

2018 - Gallery Artisjok - Project 100 Faces – the brutality and fear of the unknown

Approach

The work is a powerful example of abstract expressionism and mixed-media. The works are characterized by a layered structure in which different techniques and emotions come together.

Visual Analysis & Features

Energetic Lineature: The most striking elements in Eric De Becker's work are the chaotic, criss-crossing scribbles and lines. These are applied with pen, ink or pencil and give the work a raw, restless dynamic.

Use of colour: there is a strong contrast between the soft, almost neutral background colours (such as pastel pink, beige and soft yellow) and the bright, emotional notes in fuchsia, deep black and dark blue.

Texture and Layering: Eric De Becker's works are made up of several layers. Underneath the fine lines are coarser brushstrokes of acrylic or oil paint. In some places, the paint is applied thicker (impasto), which creates a tangible three-dimensional texture on the surface.

Style and Inspiration: the style balances on the border of intuitive painting. It is strongly reminiscent of the work of iconic artists such as Cy Twombly (known for his poetic, handwriting-like scribbles) or the frenetic, layered compositions of Joan Mitchell and Cecily Brown. During the process, the artist responds directly to the impulses of the moment, so that the act of making itself (action painting) is central.