What is Figurative Art?
Figurative art is art in which recognisable forms from reality are depicted — people, animals, landscapes, objects. It is the opposite of abstract art, where the artist moves away from recognisable imagery. Figurative art has a long history and remains one of the most direct ways to communicate a story or emotion.
A brief history
Figurative art has existed as long as humanity has made art. From the cave paintings at Lascaux to Rembrandt’s portraits — people have always had the urge to depict reality. In the twentieth century, figurative art was temporarily overshadowed by abstract movements, but the tradition never disappeared. In Outsider Art and Art Brut, figurative art remained central.
Figurative vs. abstract
The distinction is not always sharp. Many artists work in a grey zone:
- Strictly figurative: realistic representation of people, animals or objects
- Semi-figurative: recognisable forms that are distorted or stylised
- Abstract-figurative: abstract composition with figurative elements
Norbert de Jong works in this grey zone. His figures are recognisably human but not realistic — expressively distorted, with his own use of colour and symbolism.
Figurative art in Norbert de Jong’s work
Human figures play a central role in Norbert de Jong’s work. They stand alone or in groups, in motion or at rest — always with a directness typical of Outsider Art. His figures are not academic studies but expressive presences that have something to say.
The combination of figurative elements with mixed media technique gives his work a unique depth. The figures seem to grow from the layered background, as if they were always there. Browse his figurative work in the webshop or read more on figurative art for sale.