“The New Hague School”
New Hague School: Hague art with global allure
After the war, the New Hague School brought an explosion of freedom and innovation. Artists like Kees van Bohemen, Lotti van der Gaag, and Jan Roëde made The Hague a center of modern art. Their work, sought after by collectors and museums worldwide, is more relevant than ever.
“The New Hague School combines Hague idiosyncrasy with international allure – art that exudes freedom and continues to entice collectors.
”In the years following World War II, The Hague transformed from a respectable seat of government to a breeding ground for modern art. Artists of the New Hague School, such as Kees van Bohemen, Lotti van der Gaag, and Jan Roëde, traveled to Paris and returned with international impetus from Cobra and the École de Paris. Their credo? “Above all, freedom.”
No fixed style, but an explosion of expression: from lyrical abstraction to playful figuration. Willem Hussem imbued abstraction with spirituality, Jan Roëde worked with colorful compositions, and Van Bohemen sought the power of gesture. It is precisely this diversity that makes their work appealing to a wide audience and to collectors.
The New Hague School was already seen as The Hague’s answer to Cobra in the 1950s. While Cobra opted for collective rebellion, The Hague embraced individual freedom – making their oeuvre timeless. Their art received international acclaim and is still sought after by museums, exhibitions, and private collections today.
In 2025, the Kunstmuseum Den Haag will once again spotlight this innovative movement with an exhibition and anniversary book, “New Hague School – Above All Free.” Proof that these artists not only made history but also have enduring collector’s value.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the New Hague School is more than just art: it’s an opportunity to acquire a piece of international cultural history – Hague freedom with global appeal.
We show (abstract)works by: Willem Hussem, Toon Kelder, Wil Leewens, Pieter Ouborg, Jan Roëde, Wim Sinemus, Harry Verburg and Joop Vreugdenhil
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