Origins & Philosophy
Born in the northern landscapes of the Netherlands, Jan Gerrit Schuurman’s work is a dialogue between Dutch mastery of light and contemporary minimalist abstraction.
His practice involves a meticulous layering of oil and mixed media, seeking to capture not just the visual appearance of a horizon or a field, but the tactile memory of the atmosphere itself.
Biography
Early Life
Jan Gerrit Schuurman was born in the northern landscapes of the Netherlands, where light and expansive horizons shaped his artistic sensibility from an early age.
Growing up between traditional Dutch culture and contemporary influences, he developed a unique understanding of the relationship between landscape, light, and human perception.
Education
His formal artistic education began at the renowned Academie Minerva, where he learned the foundations of classical painting and drawing.
Academic Education:
- 2012 — Academie Minerva · Fine Arts, Groningen
- 2015 — Royal Academy of Art (KABK) · MFA, The Hague
- 2021 — Dutch Contemporary Art Award · Finalist
Artistic Development
After his studies, Schuurman began developing his own artistic language. His early work focused on exploring light and atmosphere in the Dutch landscape.
Over the years, he refined his technique and developed a minimalist approach that reflects both Dutch mastery of light and contemporary abstract tendencies.
Research
Parallel to his artistic practice, Schuurman pursues a research career in human decision-making. This scientific work deeply influences his artistic approach.
His research interest in the moments before decisions is reflected in his art—particularly in his engagement with incompleteness and the process of becoming.
Current Practice
Today, Schuurman works between his studios in Amsterdam and Groningen. His practice encompasses painting, drawing, and occasional experimental media.
His work is exhibited internationally and is represented in significant private and public collections.
Awards
- 2021 · Dutch Contemporary Art Award · Finalist
- 2020 · Art Rotterdam · Emerging Artist Award
- 2019 · Kunstfond Scholarship · Award
Movie
Jan Gerrit Schuurman – The Duration of Attention
An intimate documentary about the life and artistic practice of Jan Gerrit Schuurman.