An artist's book /
coloring book exploring various themes (world, body, masculinity, dream, the great priestesses of art history, objects, home).
Initially conceived in the 1960's and rebooted by Jef Geys especially for Cneai, this coloring book is made of eight double pages displaying side by side a plate colored by the artist and a blank outline plate. The plates are exploring in seven topics (world, body, masculinity, dream, the great priestesses of art history, objects, home) the linkage between the common obviousness of life and social norms which are influencing our daily life.
Jef Geys (1934-2018) was a prominent Belgian conceptual artist known for his multifaceted and often provocative work that intersected art with everyday life. Born in Leopoldsburg, Belgium, Geys was a teacher by profession, a role that deeply influenced his artistic practice. His work is characterized by its exploration of social, political, and cultural themes, often challenging the boundaries between art and daily experience.
Geys gained recognition for his innovative approach to art, which included photography, installation, sculpture, and publications. One of his notable projects was the "Kempens Informatieblad," a self-published newspaper that combined local news with critical commentary on contemporary art and society. This project exemplified his commitment to making art accessible and relevant to the broader public.
Throughout his career, Geys exhibited internationally, including notable appearances at Documenta in Kassel and the Venice Biennale. His work remains influential, celebrated for its critical engagement with the world and its capacity to blur the lines between art, education, and activism.