"Every field of artistic activity seems to have been inspired by 'De Stijl's' dynamic and purifying attitude. Architecture in the first place bears the marks of 'De Stijl' and no wonder, for a series of daring and revolutionary projects had already been realized by the group. But its influence is not limited to architecture only, because it does not emanate from any specific work of the group. It is mainly due to the activities and the dynamism of Theo van Doesburg - 'De Stijl's' gifted and courageous leader. He propagated 'De Stijl's' principles and achievements all over Europe and by his fascinating lectures - the one I heard as a schoolboy has since remained in my memory as one of the most impressive speeches I have ever heard - and his great personal charm, he would find an echo even in the remotest corners of the Continent. He and the small group of friends and followers had to fight against various forms of resistance, i.e. conservatism, an inveterate addiction to baroque pomp, mere external show and façade."