“Above all, we hope to evoke something: a feeling, wonder, or emotion.” According to Joris van Loon of Van Loon Galleries, that is precisely why an artwork lingers. MASTERS speaks to him about trends in the art world, the growing attention to the story behind a work, and what visitors can discover at the gallery during the MASTERS SUMMER EXPO.
What are the three most visible trends within the art world?
We see that figurative art is gaining more and more ground. Art is once again allowed to be recognizable and narrative, alongside the abstract. In addition, we notice that artists continue to evolve by looking beyond traditional materials such as brush, paint, or clay. They are open to new techniques, experiment with diverse materials, and increasingly give existing materials a second life.
Inclusivity and sustainability are also playing an increasingly important role within the art world. Finally, we see a clear need for peace and stillness in artworks, often visible in the use of natural colors, organic forms, and pure materials.
So what do customers look for when choosing a job?
Above all, we hope that people buy art because a work touches them and because it enriches their home or garden. Ultimately, art remains very personal: so many people, so many tastes.
What we are noticing increasingly often, however, is that clients are interested in the story behind a work of art and in the story of the artist. That depth forms a beautiful extra layer. Yet it is often the work itself that immediately draws attention, through the form, the material, the appearance, or the use of color.
In the gallery, we feature artworks by established names, but we are also constantly looking for new, emerging artists. Works by both renowned artists and emerging artists sell well. Art remains emotion.
Does the behavior of collectors change towards the summer?
Our artists and collectors buy art all year round, including for second homes and country retreats. For us, that is not really seasonal. However, we do notice that in the summer there is more demand for artworks that can also be placed outdoors.
People are spending more time in their gardens or on their terraces during this period and want to enrich those surroundings not only with flowers and plants, but also with art. A carefully chosen sculpture or object can give a garden real character and presence.
What is absolutely no longer acceptable in the art world this summer, and what actually is?
Good art is timeless. That is why we believe that so much is possible within the art world. Art is and remains subjective: every viewer or collector decides for themselves what appeals to them. It is precisely that personal experience that makes art so special.
MASTERS SUMMER EXPO takes place in Brabant. What does Brabant mean to you?
We are true Brabanders, and our gallery is located in Vught, just south of Den Bosch. To us, Brabant represents conviviality, hospitality, and easygoingness. That is why the door of our gallery is always wide open.
We hope that visitors immediately experience the Brabant warmth and relaxed atmosphere as soon as they take the first step across the threshold.
Art is allowed to be recognizable and narrative again, alongside the abstract.
What are you looking forward to most this summer?
We are particularly looking forward to meeting both existing and new clients, wonderful conversations about art, and everything that flows from that.
During the summer months, our gallery closes its doors for three weeks. We consciously use this time to spend with our families, reflect on the many events of the past six months, and look ahead to new plans. It is also a period in which inspiration arises: devising new events or perhaps even discovering and visiting a new international artist.
What do you hope visitors to MASTERS SUMMER EXPO will come to discover or experience at your venue?
We hope to surprise visitors with a special collection of painting, sculptures, photography, and glass art. But above all, we hope to evoke something: a feeling, wonder, or emotion.
In addition, we consider personal contact important. When visitors have questions about an artwork, we are happy to discuss them with them. It is precisely this interaction that makes experiencing art extra valuable.
MASTER'S SUMMER EXPO
MASTERS SUMMER EXPO is the summer sister of MASTERS EXPO. In June, The Duke Business Club in Nistelrode transforms into an exclusive summer paradise. Amidst the lush Brabant countryside, golf, gastronomy, and good times come together for four days. Inside the stylish clubhouse and outside on the sun-drenched terraces, grounds, and the beautiful golf course, a unique atmosphere of relaxation and inspiration emerges. An environment where entrepreneurship and Brabant conviviality effortlessly blend with sport, where wonderful encounters are formed at the table, in the suites, lounges, at the bar, on the green, and over a drink. Where you come not just to network, but to experience. By invitation only.