Gerard van de Weerd (1952) paints tranquil scenes in which pure surfaces, simplicity and an impressionistic painting style predominate. However, this does not detract in any way from the strong narrative power of his paintings. Using light, the interplay of deep, bright colors and the three-dimensional power of generously applied layers of oil paint alternated with empty surfaces, van de Weerd manages to create an atmosphere that is at the same time intimate, exciting and dynamic. The artist prefers to paint in his own studio in Hoogeveen, where a rough version of the intended subject is first set up, after which the painting may emerge from itself. Realistic and freely conceived elements are united in a harmonious composition during the painting process.

Search for intimacy
During his younger years, Gerard van de Weerd regularly visited various museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Singer Museum in Laren. During one of these visits he ran into the works of the German expressionist George Hendrik Breitner. Van de Weerd was deeply impressed by Breitner's painting style, which used thick layers of paint to shape his works. A second important source of inspiration was the late impressionist painter Edouard Vuillard. Vuillard's paintings were characterized by realistic representations with an unexpected perspective, creating a special atmosphere. The search for the intimate, familiar emerged as one of the most important motives for van de Weerd.

Colorful layering
The paintings of Gerard van de Weerd are all about an impression of beauty, a certain feeling and the right intonation. His scenes are sometimes provided with humorous details, such as geisha on elephants or a generous view of the derriere of one of his models. Coarse brush strokes and thick layers of paint give structure and depth to the work. Van de Weerd initially painted in more modest color schemes, but in recent years brighter shades, such as bright red or royal blue, predominated. His models also seem to feel less and less embarrassing to come to the fore. But the omission of details and the creation of pure, linear surfaces has remained the same to this day. Powerful and expressive, but at the same time extremely understated and subtle.

Exhibitions
The paintings of Gerard van de Weerd are for sale at various renowned galleries in the Netherlands. In addition, the works of this contemporary impressionist hang in various museums, such as the Drents Museum and Museum van Lien Fijnaard. In addition to his paintings, he published an impressive number of (art) books, including the book "Van Dennenrode tot Hiemstrastate", the estate where nowadays Wildevuur gallery is located. A continuous exhibition of the works of Gerard van de Weerd "A presumption of light" can be seen throughout the year in gallery Wildevuur.

 
Take a look at Gerard van de Weerd's own website and for an overview of the paintings by Gerard van de Weerd see: