Galerie Persoon, in collaboration with Oogenlust Conceptstore, was due to present a solo exhibition by photographic artist Hans Withoos from August 20 through October 18, 2025. The colorful exhibition The Joy of Life was scheduled to feature 75 magical-realist works and his latest creations. The two announced venues were located at the inspiring Oogenlust Estate in Eersel, surrounded by the natural beauty of North Brabant.
Hans Withoos is a born romantic and storyteller with a deep fascination for beauty in all its forms. Inclusivity plays a prominent role. His photographic paintings are layered and reflect an uncanny aesthetic. He creates a unique world of abundance and artifice, infused with a generous dose of hope and positivity.
For the Withoos meets Withoos series, the photographer combines still lifes and cityscapes by his distant ancestor, the 17th-century master painter Mathias Withoos, with contemporary surrealist images.
By adding models, flowers, butterflies, and birds, he brings the paintings to life. Past and present are seamlessly interwoven into new works in which two artists meet in intriguing ways.
To mark Oogenlust’s 45th anniversary, a special experience space was also planned as part of the exhibition. From September 11 through October 18, it was due to feature the award-winning short film The World of Withoos, 40 additional photographic works, set pieces, and fabrics and clothing designed by Hans Withoos. A performance by modern ballet company Introdans was planned for the festive opening, and Withoos was due to launch a new book.
Hans Withoos (Son en Breugel, 1962) studied textile design and photography at the Academy of Visual Arts in Tilburg. The artist has worked as a photographer for more than 35 years and exhibits internationally. In addition to exhibitions at the Westfries Museum in Hoorn (2018), Museum Flehite in Amersfoort (2022), and Stadhuismuseum Zierikzee (2025), his independent work has been presented at leading art fairs including KunstRAI, PAN Amsterdam, Scope Miami, and VOLTA Basel. Withoos has lived and worked in Rotterdam since 1990.
Hans Withoos | The Joy of Life
August 20 through October 18, 2025
www.galeriepersoon.com
