Cornelis (Cor) van Dijk, born on October 26, 1952 in Pernis, is a Dutch sculptor known for his sleek, geometric steel sculptures. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rotterdam from 1971 to 1976 and later obtained the State Diploma M.O. Handicraft A.
Van Dijk's sculptures are constructed from separate, precisely fitting parts of solid steel. These parts are cut from steel plates that vary in thickness, depending on the concept to be realized. By using the thickness of the steel plate as a measure in the sculpture, the mill scale, already present on the steel, remains intact. Looking at the sculptures, the eyes move and the attention alternately jumps from places where the space is open to the parts that take up space. The seams between the parts are important, as they give dimension to the mass and indicate where there is space and where there is not. The artist tries to show the internal space, with divisions, possible spaces, the spaces between the parts and the solidity of the steel. All dimensions are related: the sculpture ultimately owes its presence to these exact dimensions and the perfect connection of the different parts.
In addition to his artistic work, Van Dijk has made a significant contribution to art education. He was a teacher at various institutions, including the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague and the Academy of Art Fontys Hogescholen in Tilburg.
In 1985 he received the Basic Prize at the Prix de Rome in the free sculpture category, a prestigious award that recognizes his talent and contribution to Dutch sculpture.
His work is included in collections of, among others, the Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal in Leiden and Museum Het Valkhof in Nijmegen. He has also carried out commissions for various public spaces, such as a work of art for the F. van der Poest Clementlaan in Poortugaal.
Van Dijk lives and works in Acquoy, where he continues his artistic practice and contributes to the Dutch art scene.
