Sjoerd Bakker (1943-2022) was an artist deeply captivated by Southeast Asian and Japanese culture. Educated at the Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam, Bakker's fascination with these regions profoundly influenced his graphic and watercolor works, evident in their simplicity of form and color. His pieces emanate a serene yet enigmatic quality, characterized by evenly colored backgrounds adorned with carefully placed ornamental elements, which unmistakably reflect Japanese aesthetics.
Bakker's artworks often feature everyday objects set within tranquil landscapes, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of reality. Through his art, he illuminates the temporality of existence, juxtaposing the eternal with the fleeting in a manner imbued with subtle humor.
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Originally aspiring to be a photographer, Bakker's path shifted under the guidance of a teacher at the Rietveld Academy, who foresaw his destiny as an etcher. This redirection led him to Japan, where he spent time near Mount Fuji, an experience that profoundly impacted his perspective. Reflecting on this time, Bakker expressed how the majestic presence of Fuji instilled in him a deep sense of peace and unity with the landscape, contrasting with the Western notion of isolation within it.
For Bakker, Zen Buddhism's philosophy became a cornerstone of both life and artistic expression. He divided his time between Amsterdam and Thailand, where he had a family, drawing inspiration from the serene landscapes of both locales. Through his art, Bakker sought to capture not only the beauty of the physical world but also the ephemeral essence of human existence, guided by the timeless wisdom of Zen.
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De Galerie Den Haag offers you a choice of 13 werken from Sjoerd Bakker. Click on one of the works for more information and availability for hire.
