The self-taught Freek van den Berg was born in 1918 in Amsterdam. In the 1940s he became known for his colorful, boldly set up landscapes, still lifes, nudes and figures. He thus caught up with French Fauvism, but with the addition of a completely personal, lyrical sensuality. The painter was a member of de Onafhankelijken and also made a name for himself as an art critic.