Constant Permeke

Constant Permeke (Dutch: [kɔ̃ːˈstɑ̃ː pɛrˈmeːkə]; 31 July 1886 – 4 January 1952) was a Belgian painter and sculptor who is considered the leading figure of Flemish Expressionism.

After his military service ended in March 1908, Permeke returned to Ostend where he roomed together with Gustave De Smet.

His work of this period is characterized by his heavy brush and gains its expressive force through muted tonality and brutal forms.

During this period, Permeke was enormously productive with works like "Gouden Oogst" (1935), "De Grote Marine" (1935), "Moederschap" (1936), "Het Afscheid" (1948), "Dagelijks Brood" (1950).

[citation needed] During World War II, Permeke was forbidden to paint by the German occupiers as his art was seen by them as Entartete Kunst.

After the war, Permeke was appointed director of the National higher Institute and of the Royal Academy in Antwerp but after only one year he offered his resignation.

In 1947–48, Permeke had a big retrospective exhibition in Paris but his happiness at the return of his son was soon shattered when in 1948 his wife died.