Award-winning International artist
Henning B. Jensen dies
International Danish-born artist, creative director and teacher Henning Blak Jensen, 82 passed away peacefully on December 4, 2009. Working in America for most of his career, Jensen created over 800 original works of art. In his early years as an art director, he created numerous Fortune 500 and 1000 company logos such as Renault, Colgate and Honeywell.
Jensen also was a book illustrator and adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. Jensen held degrees from The College of Art & Design and the Academy of Art in Copenhagen, supplemented with two years of studies in drawing and painting at the renowned Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris. Jensen, recognized as one of today's fine painters, brought a wealth of personal insight and talent to his work.
A "Naturalist" by choice, Jensen explored the world of abstract, non-figurative and symbolic art. Centering on either abstract or landscape form, Jensen's work is strong in color and emotion while retaining a sense of playfulness. Prior to laying paint to canvas, a series of watercolors were created to develop the structure, style and color of each oil painting. Utilizing various underpainting techniques, Jensen's work became explosive emotion-filled statements inviting the viewer to share some of the excitement and pleasure the artist experienced when he created the work.
"My best friend and beloved artist"
Henning instilled a great appreciation for art, music, literature, history and the sciences with everyone he touched. Henning easily made friends and connected people with one another in both business and community settings. He is survived by his former spouse Aase (Pelle) Jensen, son Kim Blak Jensen (Cheri Swanson), grandchildren Eric and Daniel, soul mate Beth Moorhead and her daughter Annie. Memorial service will be held December 17, 2009 at 3:00 PM:
Normandale Lutheran Church
6100 Normandale Road
Edina, MN 55436-2685
(952) 929-1697
Memorials may be sent to
The American Swedish Institute Museum (care of Curt Peterson) or
Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery in Grand Marais (care of Jo Ann Krause),
University of Minnesota Foundation,
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (care of Steve Benson) or
Split Rock Art Program, University of Minnesota Continuing Education (care of Kathleen Davoli).
His friendship and inspiration to all of us will be greatly missed.
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