Willem de Kooning (1904–1997) was a Dutch-American abstract expressionist painter and one of the leading figures of the New York School. Here are key points about Willem de Kooning:1. **Early Life:** Willem de Kooning was born on April 24, 1904, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. He showed an early interest in art and worked as an apprentice in a commercial art and decorating firm.2. **Move to the United States:** De Kooning emigrated to the United States in 1926, settling in Hoboken, New Jersey. He moved to New York City the following year.3. **Abstract Expressionism:** De Kooning became associated with the abstract expressionist movement, which emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. Abstract expressionism was characterized by gestural brushwork, spontaneous expression, and a focus on the act of painting itself.4. **Women Series:** One of de Kooning's most notable series is the "Women" series, created between the late 1940s and early 1950s. These paintings feature distorted and aggressive depictions of the female figure, reflecting both admiration and aggression.5. **Easel Paintings:** De Kooning's easel paintings often featured dynamic brushstrokes, bold colors, and a sense of movement. He was known for his ability to balance chaos and control in his compositions.6. **Collaboration with Franz Kline:** De Kooning had a close friendship and artistic collaboration with fellow abstract expressionist Franz Kline. They exchanged ideas and influenced each other's work during the 1950s.7. **Retrospectives:** De Kooning's work was the subject of numerous retrospectives during his lifetime and posthumously. Major institutions celebrated his contributions to modern art.8. **Teaching:** De Kooning taught art at various institutions, including Black Mountain College and Yale University. His teachings influenced a generation of emerging artists.9. **Later Works:** In the 1960s and 1970s, de Kooning's style underwent changes. He explored landscape themes and produced works that incorporated more color and varied compositions.10. **Recognition and Awards:** De Kooning received significant recognition for his contributions to art. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964 and the National Medal of Arts in 1986.11. **Alzheimer's Disease:** In the 1980s, de Kooning was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. His later years were marked by declining health and a reduction in artistic output.12. **Legacy:** Willem de Kooning's legacy is enduring, and his impact on the development of abstract expressionism is widely acknowledged. His ability to push the boundaries of artistic expression and continually reinvent his style contributed to the dynamism of the New York School.Willem de Kooning's work is celebrated for its energy, spontaneity, and profound influence on the evolution of modern art. His paintings remain highly regarded and are housed in major museums and private collections around the world.
Measures 30 x 26.25.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.