Robert van de Graaf (1983, The Netherlands) is interested in the connection between the mystical in this world, in all its manifestations, and the sense and the dimension of the spiritual world. Van de Graaf draws his inspiration from myths, mystical places or stories (both from history and present times) and the philosophy of life. He wishes his artworks to provide ‘food’ for the soul, both for himself and the viewer. His artworks give substance to his ongoing journey to seek meaning in life.

He transforms the inspiration he draws from these themes into contemporary (symbolic) interpretations while referring to paintings of the old masters such as El Greco’s ‘The Vision of Saint John’ (1608-1614). The paintings move between figuration and abstraction, giving the viewer certain freedom of interpretation. At the same time the intensity of the paintings act like a gaze back at the viewer, a reflection of thoughts, crossing the line from observation to introspection and self-examination.