MARTIJN WANROOIJ, WANROOIJ GALLERY

Martijn Wanrooij is a familiar face at Masters of LXRY. Through years of dedication, discipline and perseverance, Wanrooij Gallery has become internationally recognized as a top-tier art gallery that challenges artistic boundaries and conventions. Who supported him along the way?

Martijn Wanrooij is a regular at Masters of LXRY. Through years of dedication, discipline and perseverance, Wanrooij Gallery is now internationally recognized at a top level as an art gallery where art boundaries and dogmas are broken. Who assisted him on the road to his success?Text: Susan PoederAt Masters of LXRY, Wanrooij Gallery, Alisa Lim A Po and Sander Bijl joined forces in House of Arts.

What was your very first job?

“That's funny, because I've never done anything else before. I came into contact with art at an early age thanks to my father – he was an art dealer. I actually wanted to become an actor... Yet I felt inspired by him and eventually ended up in art. The difference is that my father is more into ancient art and I focus on contemporary art.”

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What is your greatest passion in your profession?

“That I can introduce people to art. I try to reach as wide an audience as possible and I see Wanrooij Gallery not just as a gallery, but more as a platform. In 2007 I took part in Masters of LXRY for the first time, which started with a small booth. It is a kind of excursion for my gallery.

We live in a time of economic boom and people would rather buy art than put their money in the bank. But I do say: this requires building a bond and I actually only want to sell art if you are really interested in it and not because it is merely seen as an investment opportunity. I want to be known that I can really help people in the world of art.” Tim de Vries' work could be admired in House of Arts during Masters of LXRY.

Who was your wheelbarrow?

“For me that was Katelijne de Backer, former director of The Armory Show in New York. She has always believed in me. To get anywhere you need people who believe in you. And I also really have to give credit to my wife. Without her I would never have been where I am now.”

Who have you been a wheelbarrow for?

“I was definitely a wheelbarrow for Joseph Klibansky. In 2007 I discovered Joseph Klibansky, a boy who had just graduated from business school... There was nothing there yet. We gave him a platform, fought for him. 2 years ago we said goodbye to each other, because the magic was no longer there and my vision has changed. Joseph can now stand on his own two feet. Our focus is on current art and I think it's great to give the new generation of artists a chance. One thing must be clear, never forget who helped you get there.

I have worked with photographer Christian Voigt from the very beginning. I have been all over the world with him and he is now a very sought-after artist.” Voigt, originally from Hamburg, captures hyper-realistic images during his travels. He is known for his gigantic technical photos.

“I would also like to mention Tim de Vries. Our meeting was very coincidental, but the chemistry was good from the very beginning and that is what matters to me. No matter how good an artist you are, if the chemistry isn't right, it won't work. I took him to Art Miami: one of the most prestigious art events in the world. I have always believed in him and am happy to see that the art world has fully embraced him.”

Also watch: Opening Wanrooij Gallery 2018

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