Art-related contemporary guidance

Cornelis van Klaveren, born in Schiedam, Netherlands, and currently residing in Salviac, France, is a contemporary multidisciplinary conceptual artist. Renowned for his statement "IK MOET NIKS" and his distinctive use of nylon threads, he creates conceptual art encompassing mystic, abstract, surrealistic, and spiritual elements through paintings, sculptures, and performances. His philosophy, LivingArt, initiated in 2003, emphasizes that art should not be confined by rules or obligations but should celebrate freedom, self-expression, and existential autonomy, inviting the art world to redefine life and creation.

In my artistic practice, I believe in utilizing all available materials. I repurpose and use existing artist supplies such as acrylic paint, oil paint, linen canvases, and frames. Additionally, I create my own frames from natural materials like branches. When the materials resonate, working with them becomes an intuitive process. I employ various natural elements such as stones and types of wood, which I sometimes sand, treat, add gold leaf to, or paint, allowing the creative process to unfold as intended.

I incorporate jewelry into my artworks, either repurposing pieces or creating new ones from beads or gifted stones. Nylon threads are another key component of my work; I meticulously stretch them over my artworks in a meditative process, symbolizing an encounter with the source of pure, unconditional love and light. Writing about this process is an integral part of my oeuvre, inspiring song lyrics and performances that further the creative cycle, embodying the concept that "Everything is energy."

Conceptually, I also incorporate objects of various sizes and materials—clay, stone, wood, steel, plastic, paper—sometimes adapting them to create new images and evoke different perceptions.

My artistic style is conceptually eclectic, blending various contemporary and modern art styles into a single piece, layer by layer. This can include abstract elements, textual components, and more. A core philosophy of my work is encapsulated in the statement in Dutch; ‘IK MOET NIKS’ in English translate: "I MUST DO NOTHING," which invites immediate reflection, similar to invoking a sense of consciousness—simply being it. The use of nylon threads is a distinctive visual trademark of my work, adding a unique and recognizable element that sets my art apart.

I create art to contribute to the greater good. I feel free to observe, listen, and sense the dynamics between people, particularly the balance between obligation and desire. For me, creation is meditative, engaging, and adventurous. I believe that energies and electrons give rise to thoughts, while molecules and atoms represent form. This understanding allows us to make thoughtful choices that maintain the essential connection between people and their needs. The attention I give to this process manifests as art, an extension of my soul that I am eager to share.

My goal is to foster awareness by encouraging people to view, think, and act differently through my art. My message begins with the notion that the observer is under no obligation; they can view their own lives as artworks, making choices based on their desires. A recurring theme in my work is in Dutch ‘IK MOET NIKS’ and always ask; ‘What it means?’ translate in English: "I MUST DO NOTHING," which, along with the use of nylon threads, is explored from various contexts and perspectives. Human norms and values are collaboratively established, and I reflect this in my art by layering fragile societal values over deep emotional experiences.

I collaborate with my family—my partner and my son—and form an artistic collective, sharing and creating art with both well-known and emerging artists, nationally and internationally. I understand and sometimes critique art history and specific movements, believing that in our current era, we can utilize and combine diverse influences. I call this "Living Art" and have written a manifesto and essay to clarify my artistic intentions and my statement ’IK MOET NIKS’ translate in English "I MUST DO NOTHING."

Taking elements out of context is an art form in itself, symbolizing the freedom of interpretation, with the consequences of understanding and misunderstanding adding to its intrigue. Art demands tolerance. I write concepts that propose solutions to societal issues, which begin as fiction but can become reality when needed. Art, for me, is a journey of discovery and an extension of my soul.

Life itself is a grand art project for me, evolving from my childhood days of drawing with pens on paper, infusing words I learned to write—vowels and consonants—with resonance. Folding a newspaper into a boat titled "Stories that Travel" evoked powerful emotions from my teachers, deepening my awareness of creation's impact. Confronting existing structures that constrained expressive freedom initially led me to create from that energy.

Today, success means "being where you want to be," aligning my work with happiness and embracing a freedom where creation is pure, uninhibited, and unconditional. Traveling, living, and working with my art across diverse countries and cultures allowed me to layer new meanings onto existing expressions and create fresh works. The colors and materials I use resonate with each environment, incorporating intrinsic values from their origins into my art.

Embracing life's varied emotional states has shaped my artistic journey, evolving my expressions. Certain words and techniques have become ingrained, inspiring me to transform what started as pure artistic impulse—unconcerned with conventional norms—into pieces suitable for exhibition in the art world. Using sustainable materials without compromising my artistic intent is now paramount.

Life remains a growth process for me, facilitated by a flexible and open-minded approach. I find my earlier artworks better understood today, resonating with a collective consciousness that has grown over the years. What I discussed with a smaller group two decades ago now engages a broader audience, reflecting how art evolves with its viewers.

Currently, I am preparing editions and planning a new exhibition, responding to the demand for my art in this evolving landscape.

In my oeuvre, I have explored various themes and techniques across different periods. In 2003, I handwrote a booklet inspired by a profound meditation experience shared with my partner. This booklet, which describes "the source of sources," the pure and unadulterated light of love, includes answers to questions I received during the meditation. Additionally, I wrote around twenty poems, which I initially copied for my family. The woman at the copy shop read the booklet, apologized for reading it, and requested a copy for herself. Interest grew from there.

In 2017, I decided to enhance these poems with photographs of my artwork and published them as a hardcover book through a publishing house, turning it into a continuous artistic expression. As an author I wrote under an alias; Willie Wete, a Dutch name, came about because I copied the handwritten poems into word and the internet came into play. W.W.W. which stands for world wide web. This gave a reflection that I thought (translated) 'What Wants to Know' ('i' is spoken in Rotterdam for ‘hij’ means 'he' in English) In Dutch; Wat Wil (i) Wete ? Title: Het moment fictie of realiteit.

From 2011 to 2014, I maintained an open studio in Ibiza, where I continually created a series using recycled materials, consistently incorporating the phrase "IK MOET NIKS." This practice continued from 2014 to 2017 in the Netherlands and from 2017 to 2024 in France.

Since 2009, I have been using nylon threads stretched over primarily canvas paintings. This technique often accompanies works born from intense experiences, making them bearable through the meditative process of stretching the threads. The threads symbolize the experience from the source of sources, representing pure, unconditional love and light.

In 2017, I created a 60x60 cm artwork consisting of a wooden panel with branches from the forest, painted white. At its center, there is a double LP cover with a vinyl record inside. The cover is adorned with fine art photography, prominently featuring my forearm tattoo with the text "IK MOET NIKS." I am wearing a homemade winter hat with the text "I WAS HERE." Although my face is not recognizable, a person in a praying posture is visible, with arms raised and palms together pointing toward the sky. The LP cover can be removed and opened, revealing three texts—one by me, one by my partner, and one by my son. We collaborated on the music, producing and recording it, and incorporating some poems from my poetry collection as lyrics.

The artwork is designed to be both seen and heard, with the audio addressing themes like time, existence, freedom, and love. Nylon threads are stretched across the frame, symbolizing pure, unconditional love and light, resonating like guitar strings used in our production. The current owner of this piece is also the director of our documentary "Ik Moet Niks." This artwork is a prototype, a conceptual expression intended to become a series in 2025 due to increasing interest.

Another piece from 2017 reflects my intense years living in Ibiza. Titled "Visit The Artist," this 150x80 cm framed canvas painting is interwoven with nylon threads. The smooth green frame has a gold trim. The painting, created with acrylics, is vibrant with red, blue, yellow, black, and white text reading "door alles heen voelen." It features recognizable elements such as a Buddha, the distant sea, and a larger figure depicted in line art.

This surreal, spiritual piece captures the essence of Ibiza as a bustling island full of energy and events, surpassing the ordinary value of reality. It's a busy work with much to see, where tourists converge and energies blend in creation. Inner values and monetary aspects intermingle, and the painting captures these events in a way that reveals more the longer you look at it from a certain state of being.

I worked on this from 2020 to 2024 by observing, listening and looking at society in turbulent times and wrote about this for myself. The work is a digital photo of the Dutch flag with the colors red white blue and you see there with an orange painting font 'IK MOET NIKS'. It is a work that reflects the dissatisfaction of people who feel that they are not taken seriously by those in power. 120 by 100 cm high-quality museum quality print.

Manifesto of LivingArt: A Life Philosophy as Conceptual Art

Introduction: In 2003, Cornelis van Klaveren introduced a revolutionary approach to art known as 'LivingArt.' This manifesto explores the fundamental beliefs behind LivingArt and highlights its relevance in the contemporary zeitgeist and for the greater good.

I. Life as Creation: LivingArt posits that life itself is the ultimate creation of individuals. As artists of our own existence, we have the ability to consciously or subconsciously shape the void around us. Everything, from thoughts to actions, emerges from the universal energy we share. This premise places the individual at the center of creation, emphasizing each person's potential to create their unique masterpiece: their own life.

II. The Human Central: A core belief of LivingArt is that humans precede the institutions and systems we have created. Schools, organizations, and structures follow from the individual, not the other way around. To effect real change, we must focus on the human being, the artist of their own life. By giving space to the individuality, choices, and purity of human existence, we create a rich environment for authentic creativity and growth.

III. The Power of Awareness: LivingArt encourages the awareness that everything is interconnected. Everything is energy, and from this energy, we can create meaningful forms. By making conscious choices and paying attention to the creation of our own lives, we can view ourselves and others as artists. This awareness forms the basis for a profound understanding of the interdependence of humanity.

IV. Academically Relevant Foundation: LivingArt finds a solid foundation in scientific insights about the interconnectedness of everything in the universe. Scientific disciplines such as quantum physics support the idea of universal energy and the influence of consciousness on reality. Psychological studies emphasize the importance of individual choices and their impact on well-being and creativity. LivingArt brings these academic insights together in a holistic approach to art and life.

V. Greater Good and Contemporary Relevance: In the current zeitgeist, where individuality, self-expression, and awareness are increasingly important, LivingArt offers a valuable perspective. The manifesto promotes a life stance that not only encourages artistic expression but also contributes to a more harmonious society. By placing the individual at the center and embracing the power of creativity, we can foster a culture of understanding, empathy, and authentic growth.

Conclusion: LivingArt is not just an artistic movement; it is a life philosophy that has the potential to elevate the individual and exert a positive influence on the world around us. Let us embrace this vision, not only as artists of our own lives but also as co-artists in the collective masterpiece we share: human existence.

Ensuring Proper Use of LivingArt Manifesto and Art Statement

The intention behind LivingArt and my art statement, "Ik Moet Niks" (I Must Nothing), is clear: it is not meant to undermine democracy, contradict laws, or encourage misinterpretation. Instead, it is a call for genuine artistic expression and connection. These expressions should not be misused by end-users. Here’s how we ensure this:

1. Clear Communication: Every product, artwork, or piece of merchandise that carries the LivingArt name or "Ik Moet Niks" brand will include a clear disclaimer. This disclaimer will state that the usage of these items should adhere to ethical standards and should not be used to justify unlawful or harmful behavior. The disclaimer will explicitly mention that the artist is not liable for any misuse by the end-user.

2. Legal Protection: LivingArt and "Ik Moet Niks" are protected under intellectual property laws, including copyright and trademark regulations. This legal protection ensures that any unauthorized use or misrepresentation of these concepts can be addressed through legal channels. The disclaimer will reinforce that all rights are reserved by Cornelis van Klaveren and any unauthorized use is subject to legal action.

3. Ethical Guidelines: An ethical guideline document will accompany each purchase, outlining the intended use of the artwork or merchandise. It will emphasize the importance of respecting human rights, being clear, honest, explainable, consistent, tactful, and humane. These guidelines will reinforce the artist's intention and the proper way to engage with LivingArt.

4. Consumer Responsibility: The disclaimer will make it clear that the responsibility for any misuse lies with the consumer. It will state that any actions taken with the artwork or merchandise that are outside the artist’s intended use are the sole responsibility of the end-user. This shift of responsibility ensures that consumers are aware of their own accountability.

Example Disclaimer:

"LivingArt and 'Ik Moet Niks' are expressions of genuine artistic intention and should not be used to justify unlawful or unethical behavior. The artist, Cornelis van Klaveren, holds no liability for any misuse by the end-user. All intellectual property rights are reserved. Unauthorized use or misrepresentation will be subject to legal action. By purchasing this product, you agree to respect human rights and adhere to the ethical guidelines provided."

LivingArt: A Call to Artists and Businesses Alike

LivingArt invites artists to create within these values and urges businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs to engage in a top-down approach. This method ensures immediate presence and collaboration to improve the world, where artists are heard and understood, reinforcing what is necessary to be. By connecting and transforming as needed, LivingArt promotes a synergistic relationship between art and business, fostering a culture of mutual respect and growth. This new ontological framework not only revolutionizes the art world but also extends its influence into various sectors, creating a holistic and inclusive vision for the future.

By adopting LivingArt, we embrace a philosophy that transcends traditional boundaries, fostering a dynamic and responsive art culture that aligns with the needs and values of contemporary society

LivingArt: My Manifesto and My Art Statement 'Ik Moet Niks'

Exploration of Freedom in Creation and Existential Autonomy

"I must do nothing." This simple yet powerful statement can be interpreted both as a challenge and a liberation. It defies conventions and frees the mind from obligations. It is the core of my artistic philosophy, LivingArt, which was born in 2003 and invites the art world to redefine life and creation.

LivingArt revolves around the belief that life itself is the ultimate creation of the individual. As the artist of my own existence, I believe that we have the ability to shape the void around us, either consciously or subconsciously. This philosophy emphasizes the power of personal freedom and the beauty of a self-aware life.

Hook

"Freedom is the oxygen of the soul." - Moshe Dayan

Freedom, both in thought and action, is the central theme of my work and manifesto. It is the cornerstone of my philosophy that emphasizes the autonomy of the individual in a world full of rules and expectations. How can we achieve ultimate freedom in creation and existence?

Background Information

LivingArt emerged from a deep reflection on the nature of creation and the role of the artist. Traditional art forms often limit expression through fixed frameworks and expectations. LivingArt breaks these limitations by considering life itself as a work of art. This approach requires a fundamental shift in how we view art and life: as inseparable and constantly evolving.

Thesis Statement

My thesis is simple: the ultimate art is life itself, and the only way to fully embrace this is by living with the philosophy 'Ik Moet Niks.' This statement means "I must do nothing" in Dutch and suggests that true creative freedom begins with rejecting obligations that are not intrinsic to the individual.

Argument 1: Autonomy as the Core of Creation

Freedom in creation begins with autonomy. By freeing ourselves from external obligations and expectations, we can live and create authentically. LivingArt places the individual at the center of creation, allowing each person to create their own unique masterpiece: life itself.

Evidence: Artists like Jackson Pollock and Marina Abramović have shown that when one rejects conventional rules of art, there is room for unique and influential expression. Pollock's drip paintings and Abramović's performance art have become iconic precisely because they ignored traditional boundaries.

Argument 2: The Power of Awareness

Awareness of our freedom and the power of our choices is crucial for authentic creation. LivingArt encourages deep reflection on our existence and the interconnectedness of all things. By making conscious choices and paying attention to the creation of our own lives, we can see not only ourselves but also others as artists.

Evidence: Psychology emphasizes the importance of self-awareness for well-being and creativity. Studies show that self-aware individuals are better able to make authentic and meaningful choices, leading to higher personal satisfaction and artistic expression.

Argument 3: Rejecting External Obligations

'Ik Moet Niks' means letting go of external expectations and embracing intrinsic motivation. This principle is essential for LivingArt and promotes a culture of understanding, empathy, and authentic growth. By living without the pressure of external obligations, there is space for true creativity and personal development.

Evidence: The existentialist philosophy of Jean-Paul Sartre emphasizes the individual's freedom to give meaning to their own life. Sartre's concept of 'existential freedom' supports the idea that true creation arises from rejecting imposed norms and embracing personal autonomy.

Counterargument 1: Necessity of Structure

Critics may argue that structure and obligations are essential for productivity and societal order. Without rules and expectations, chaos would reign and true creation would be impossible.

Refutation: While structure can be important, it is crucial that it stems from intrinsic motivation rather than external pressure. Self-imposed structure, based on personal values and goals, can actually form the basis for deeper and more authentic creation. It is about finding a balance where freedom and self-discipline coexist.

Counterargument 2: The Risk of Nihilism

Another counterargument is that 'Ik Moet Niks' can lead to nihilism, where life is seen as meaningless without any obligation or goal.

Refutation: LivingArt posits that meaning is created by the individual. Rejecting imposed obligations does not mean rejecting all meaning, but rather redefining what is valuable and important from a personal and authentic perspective.

Conclusion

Based on the arguments presented, it can be concluded that the philosophy of LivingArt and the principle 'Ik Moet Niks' offer a powerful approach to both art and life. By embracing autonomy, awareness, and the rejection of external obligations, we can achieve deeper, more authentic, and meaningful creation.

Final Sentence

Let us embrace this vision, not only as artists of our own lives but also as co-artists in the collective masterpiece we share: human existence. In the words of Henry David Thoreau, "Live the life you have dreamed. Stand up and live your own story."