Ben Put – Global Influences, Clear Structures
Belgian artist Ben Put views his painting as a process of connection – a bridge between the rational mind and the intuitive heart. Following many years of social engagement in Africa, he now uses the canvas as a medium to process experiences and find inner peace. His work is characterized by a deep appreciation for life, utilizing painting as a healing element to translate emotions into color and form. Stylistically, he moves between ethnic influences and modern abstraction.
In the Contrast series, Put processes a personal identity crisis triggered by the birth of his child and the transition into fatherhood. Originally created to stimulate a newborn’s visual perception through strong contrasts, it evolved into a distinct style. This phase marks the increased inclusion of turquoise, blue, and green tones in his work – colors that previously played little role and now serve as a new testament to his artistic journey.
The Nature’s Myth series is a heartfelt homage to nature, radiating peace, power, and mystery simultaneously. Put uses green tones of moss, grass, and leaves, while the haptic structure of the paint application represents earth and stone. The incorporation of metallic colors further symbolizes the hidden raw materials of our earth. The work is an expression of human gratitude for the unfathomable foundation that enables life for all organisms.
Ben Put’s international profile is highlighted by awards such as winning the “Jesse & Kunst” competition. His long-standing social engagement in Africa and his support for organizations such as vzw uturn and the RA Liga are reflected in art driven by empathy and a desire for global connectivity. His works invite the viewer to perceive the world as a grand whole and to find a universal connection through visual harmony.