20th place in the ‘Dutch Artist of the Year 2027’ competition
Friday, October 02, 2026
20th place in the ‘Dutch Artist of the Year 2027’ awards: a look back.
On 1 October 2027, I received a message from the organisers of the Dutch Artist of the Year 2027 award. My final position on the national list has been announced: I finished in 20th place. And I’m absolutely delighted with that! As I scroll through the list of fellow artists, I see an impressive collection of renowned names. Colleagues whom I have looked up to for years and for whom I have great admiration.
This award feels like a wonderful token of appreciation for all the work, love and dedication I have poured into my art over the years.
Where it all began.
In my mind, I’m taking a moment to go back to the year 2000. That was when I finally took the plunge and decided to become a full-time artist. I was 38 years old and had just come through a very difficult period in my life. I was at a crossroads and had to decide how I wanted to shape my future.
I decided to take the risk and follow what my heart truly desired: painting. I gave myself five years to find out whether there really was a future in it.
Step by step
Slowly but surely, the seed began to grow. The first exhibitions followed, then the first sales, the first commissions, international exhibitions and, eventually, work in museums. There was no single, spectacular breakthrough, but rather continuous, steady growth. Step by step.
The most important thing in that process? Persisting with painting and drawing. Even when others were lying on the beach. Or had long since fallen into a deep sleep in bed. Just carrying on, putting in the miles and constantly trying to improve.
And then, half a lifetime later, you suddenly find yourself in such an honourable position amongst the top 100 artists in the Netherlands. It’s a lovely moment to pause and reflect on the path I’ve taken — and, above all, a motivation to keep standing at the easel with just as much passion.
My thanks to the panel for awarding me this wonderful place, and to everyone who voted for me.
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