Kobe Belgian, 1950-2014

Kobe, pseudonym of Jacques Saelens (1950-2014) was a Belgian artist. He studied at the LUCA School of Arts in Schaarbeek (1969-1974) and the Academy of Fine Arts in Kortrijk (1969-1977), where he learned how important drawing is for a sculptor.

After his time at the academy, Kobe went on a long journey through Central and South America, which had a major influence on his development as an artist. Kobe's artistic vision was further shaped by many trips to Africa and Asia, where he absorbed the ancient cultures. Kobe became a sculpture instructor at the academies of Kortrijk, Deinze and Harelbeke. Around 1992, Kobe began experimenting with flat forms, which led to a typical and recognisable style of broad yet thin works of art.

From 1995, Kobe worked in Pietrasanta (Tuscany), close to the bronze foundries and the marble quarries of Carrara. Here he gained more and extensive knowledge of working with marble and bronze. This is clearly reflected in the refined finish of his sculptures. In terms of content, Kobe's work refers to the ideas of the well-known psychologist Carl Jung. The latter believed that humans are often unconsciously driven by archetypes that are reproduced throughout the ages. Kobe's oeuvre shows these primal images in a contemporary way and with the artist's recognisable signature style. A style characterised by smooth, flat and flowing forms and simple lines. Two subjects dominated his artwork: the female figure and the horse. 

Kobe's most monumental work of art, Arcade (670 × 630 × 440 cm), is located in Canada, close to the Atlantic Ocean. Other works can be found in museums and private collections, including The Phoebus Foundation and Beeldengalerij Het Depot. Kobe's work has been exhibited in numerous national and international galleries and art fairs, including Morren Galleries.