Hans Wap

Versatile artist Hans Wap, born in 1943 in Rotterdam, studied at the Willem de Kooning Academy in his hometown.

Wap’s body of work consists of paintings, prints, ceramics, glass objects, and pastel drawings. The artist has also designed various sets for the Scapino Ballet. Wap has developed his own highly recognizable visual language. The image, the “signature style,” does not set itself apart, according to the artist. Wap’s style is mostly figurative and is sometimes reminiscent of comic strips and Pop Art.

A recurring theme in Wap’s works is the traveling person. In his paintings and graphic works—including woodcuts, linocuts, and screen prints—many figures carrying suitcases or bags are depicted trying to board boats, airplanes, and trains. It seems as though these people are unsure of how to navigate the hectic world around them. Landscapes and elements of nature are also recurring themes in the artist’s work. Wap’s creations are not at all somber and require little explanation. They sometimes come across as ironic and slightly absurd. Another characteristic of his work is the use of bold, bright colors.

Wap’s body of work has been exhibited worldwide. His work is part of the art collections of private individuals, companies, and museums, including the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam and the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam. The artist has received several awards for his creations, including the Jacob Hartog Prize and the European Biennial of Graphic Art. In addition to his work as an artist, Wap has published seven collections of poetry. Several monographs on the artist’s life and work have also been published, including the 1999 book *Stills*, written by H. van Leeuwen.