Fantasy landscape 02' (2015) Painting by Jan Aanstoot

Jan Aanstoot is a contemporary Dutch painter whose artistic journey evolved from realistic landscape paintings to more abstract and expressionistic works. Initially trained at the Academy of Art in Arnhem, he began by painting in a realistic style as taught. However, over time, his landscapes lost their horizon and structure, giving way to a more freeform approach that became increasingly abstract.

Music, particularly compositions by Bach, Brahms, Rachmaninov, and Brel, serves as a significant source of inspiration for his art. Jan’s creative process is driven by a compelling image that demands to be painted. He is less concerned with the origins of the image or the experiences behind it; rather, his focus is on its form, size, and color. The process of painting itself—where elements are either embraced or rejected—defines his work. The result is an image that feels as if it had been sought all along, capturing the essence of what was previously unsought.

Jan has exhibited extensively in the Netherlands, as well as in international cities such as Paris, Ermont, Lille, and Nice in France; Florence, Cortona, and Monte San Savino in Italy; Zurich in Switzerland; and Dubai.

• Nationality: NETHERLANDS
• Date of birth : 1948
• Artistic domains: Works by professional artists,
• Groups: Professional Artist Contemporary Dutch Artists