John Michaux

JOHN MICHAUX (Antwerp, 1876 - Ixelles, 1956 or 1957).
"Beach of Scheveningen".
Oil on panel.
Signed and titled "Strand Scheveningen" (Scheveningen Beach) on the back.
Sources: E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire critique et documentaire des peintres, sculpteurs, dessinateurs et graveurs de tous les temps et de tous les pays par un groupe d'écrivains spécialistes français et étrangers, Gründ, 1999, vol. IX , p. 582; Wim and Greet Pas, Biografisch Lexicon Plastische Kunst in België. Painters, sculptors and graphic artists 1830-2000. Arto 2000, Antwerp, vol. II, p. 141.
Measurements: 94 x 100 cm.

In this canvas we can notice the imprint of William Turner in John Michaux, particularly in the refined construction of the chromatic palette, modulated with subtlety and precision, as well as in the evocation of the serene seascapes of James Abbott McNeill Whistler. However, beyond these references, the work reveals the artist's remarkable technical skill: the mastery of light, the security of the stroke and the balanced articulation of the atmosphere reveal a mature and conscious execution. It is, therefore, a piece that not only gathers the strength and determination of the great masters of the 19th century, but also reworks them with solvency and personality of its own.

John Michaux was a post-impressionist painter, watercolorist and draftsman of landscapes, seascapes, beach scenes and compositions. During his stay in London during the First World War, he was influenced by the English romantic painter of landscapes and, above all, of seascapes, William Turner (1775-1851), and by the painter and engraver James Abbott McNeill Whistler (1834-1903). Michaux painted his views of the Scheldt and landscapes of the Kempen region with thick strokes and vivid colors. His pre-war work-Scheldt views and seascapes-was largely destroyed during World War I in the Yser region.

Michaux trained at the Antwerp Academy and the National Higher Institute of Fine Arts in Antwerp (NHISKA) with Frans Hens (1856-1928). He was a member of the artistic circle "Als ik Kan" (If I can). He taught at the Higher Colonial Institute (Tropical Institute) in Antwerp.