The Fisher Girl

Georges De Sloovere, known as Geo, was born on August 4, 1873, in Bruges. From a young age, he showed a profound sensitivity to form, light, and color—qualities that would come to define his work. He began his formal training at the Academy of Fine Arts in Bruges (1888–1895), where he developed a deep admiration for his mentor, Edmond Van Hove, whose influence he would gratefully recall throughout his life.

In 1896, De Sloovere furthered his artistic education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels, where he studied until 1901. His talent was quickly recognized, and he was awarded numerous prizes during his time there. He became a member of the Nationaal Verbond van Kunstschilders en Beeldhouwers van België, and went on to establish himself as a painter of townscapes, landscapes, figures, and portraits.

A strong and skilful colorist, De Sloovere was known for his self-assured and expressive style. His compositions bear witness to a bold and powerful line, shaped by both passion and precision. He captured the world with a distinctive artistic voice—deeply personal, vibrant, and full of life. Particularly striking are his neo-impressionist landscapes, often characterized by monumental tree trunks and dynamic compositions filled with sunlight and movement.

His works were widely exhibited in Belgium and abroad, including in Ghent, Antwerp, Liège, Brussels, Paris, and London. He garnered several prestigious awards at international exhibitions, earning him recognition not only as a prolific artist but also as an artist of exceptional merit.

In 1918, De Sloovere was appointed as a teacher at the Bruges Academy of Fine Arts, where he taught until 1925. One of his most noted students was Gustaaf Buffel. He inspired generations with his creative energy, observational clarity, and relentless work ethic—qualities frequently praised in the many articles and critical essays written about him.

On December 3, 1921, Geo De Sloovere married Leona Jansseune. The couple had two daughters: Odrada (b. 1923) and Monica (1927–1937). Until 1928, the family lived in the historic house Memlinc on Filips de Goedelaan in Bruges. They later moved to De Pelikaan, a home he had built by renowned architect Firmin Koentges on the Moerkerkse Steenweg in Sint-Kruis. His studio was located on the upper right floor, bathed in light—an ideal setting for his vibrant artistic practice.

A major retrospective of his work was held at the Groeningemuseum in Bruges on November 3, 1957. The exhibition was a resounding success and marked a high point in his artistic legacy, drawing significant attention from international audiences.

Geo De Sloovere passed away on June 26, 1970, at the Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges, the city that had been his lifelong home and inspiration.

Today, his works are held in both private and public collections worldwide. The Groeningemuseum in Bruges preserves several of his key works, including Vrouwen die koper kuisen and Bomenlandschap, while the Bruges City Hall houses his portrait of Mayor Victor Van Hoestenberghe. His oeuvre remains a celebration of light, nature, and the joy of life—painted with strength, sensitivity, and unmistakable vitality.