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Konkrete Kunst –
Komposition N° IX

von Karl Navky, Püttlingen

My paintings are not abstract but very concrete in the undi-

lutable laws of geometry and mathematics. They are Concrete Art

as the Dutchman Theo van Doesburg first defined it on the occa-

sion of founding the Art Concret group. Concrete Art is distinct

from abstract art and constructivism due to its scientific thinking.

This means the exploration of geometric laws and the concentra-

tion on the interplay of form and colour. Artists such as Kasimir

Malevitch, Piet Mondrian, Josef Albers, Max Bill or Johannes Itten

significantly influenced Concrete Art with their works.

As a former architect, this art movement always fascinated me

due to its close connection to the disciplined planning and cre-

ativity of my profession. This enthusiasm began when, during my

studies of architecture at the Werkkunstschule des Saarlandes

(today: Hochschule der bildenden Künste Saar), I at times wan-
dered into the master class of Professor Boris Kleint. Previously, I

had already completed with Professor Oskar Holweck the basic

studies oriented on the Bauhaus. At the time of my studies, the

Staatliche Werkkunstschule Saarbrücken was an attempt to

implement the Bauhaus ideas in a provincial setting. That the

attempt was relatively successful was above all owed to some

distinguised Bauhaus master students such as Boris Kleint, the

former assistant of Johannes Itten.

After a total of 45 years of professional activity, 36 of these as a

freelancing architect, I am today very fortunate in being able to

dedicate a major part of my time to my lasting fascination with

Concrete Art.

Karl Navky, Püttlingen 2017