Jan Boom was born in Rotterdam and grew up in a Calvinist family. Religion, along with still life, would later become the common thread within his body of work. He painted still lifes, portraits, religious scenes, and cityscapes. Jan Boom was one of the promising young painters of Rotterdam.
The artist then decided to change course and move to the countryside. He settled in a small farmhouse in Leerbroek, located 50 kilometers away. For many, his decision was incomprehensible. Even Jan Boom himself occasionally had doubts about his choice. Suddenly, he was cut off from the city, from the government program for artists, and from other fellow artists. Despite his isolation, a few admirers continued to purchase his work.
Jan Boom’s departure to the countryside had a significant influence on his art. The tranquility of the rural surroundings seems to be reflected in his work. He continued to paint portraits, religious scenes, and landscapes, but still life became his main subject. He painted a small bouquet, fruits, jars, bottles, or other objects from “the kitchen cabinet.”
www.ftn-books.com has the Gorinchem catalog now available
