Hello, I’m Dimitri!
Art has always been a part of me. It runs in the family — I inherited my talent for drawing and painting from my mother’s side. The moment I pick up a brush or pencil, I disappear into another world. It’s my way of finding peace and being completely myself. This sense of freedom and creativity drives everything I create.
Curious about my work? Contact me!
My background
My passion for drawing began early, sparked by something unexpected. As a child, I had to spend a long time in bed due to illness. To escape boredom, I dived into the world of comic books. Their illustrations fascinated me, and I knew I wanted to create such art myself. I soon discovered I had talent, and my father supported this by giving me art books filled with works by old masters. As I flipped through those pages, I knew: I wanted to become a painter.
I followed my dream and studied at Minerva Art Academy in Groningen. After graduating, I tried to become a full-time artist, but as my family grew, I needed a more stable career in the business world. Still, I never truly left painting behind. Now, I’m giving my art the attention it deserves once again.
Growing up in the quiet village of Aduard, near Groningen, has shaped me. The rural surroundings and the simplicity of life there influenced my perspective on art and life in general. You can see this reflected in my work, where people and landscapes often take center stage.
How I work
Although I graduated from Minerva with a focus on photorealism, I don’t limit myself to a single style. Classic, modern, abstract, or impressionist — my work varies, just like the subjects I paint. It can be a portrait, a landscape, a flower, or an abstract piece. I let myself be guided by the moment and my intuition. Every subject tells me what it needs, whether it’s a serene nature scene, a portrait, an airplane in the sky, or a vibrant cityscape.
My creative process usually starts with an observation or a conversation. I take it all in and make sketches or notes, sometimes supported by photos. Then I carefully choose the right surface, such as canvas or panel, and the paint — usually oil or acrylic. Once everything is set, I immerse myself in the right mood and let the magic begin. Layer by layer, I build up the painting, with each layer bringing it closer to completion.