Henk Helmantel artwork • painting • previously for sale Asparagus from the fish market

Henk Helmantel is one of the Dutch post-war realists. He particularly excels in his still lifes, the objects of which are elaborated down to the smallest detail and brushstrokes and reliefs in the paint layer are barely perceptible. Well-considered composition, colour distribution and subtle lighting play a major role in this work. After 1980 his still lifes changed somewhat because he created a greater separation between main and side issues through lighting and elaboration. Helmantel received his education at the academy of Groningen (1961-1965). In his choice for realism, he was initially influenced by Dick Ket, especially in the field of surface division and high point of view.