Jean-Paul Marsman (1962) is one of the most remarkable painters of this moment. His work is bought by collectors, galleries, museums and business. The city of New York is one of his largest sources of inspiration, which is why he visits this city frequently. His work can also be admired in New York on a regular basis.

Passionate and full. Life is intense. All sorts of things are happening everywhere. People live their life on more levels than ever before. Numerous apparent contrasts live inside of us. We are all looking for spirituality, but we get stuck in nowadays fast and loud mass media. Those contrasts can also be found in Marsman’s paintings, they come alive in his work.

The bright, strong colours and the recognisable shapes are spectacular, cartoonesque and grotesque. The image is an adventure, passionate and full. A positive snigger in a chaotic society. Does his work contain a message? Of course, but most of all a challenge to look at the way in which we live, from his smiling perspective. A dialogue with the viewer. Marsman sets the tone and the viewer fills in his or her story. A conversation or a discussion.

The urge to talk, to be seen and heard. No super ego! But a message, an opinion, a thought. In words and pictures. It doesn’t matter. Every day again! Unpredictable, surprising and chaotic. Creating, plugging away and monkeying around. No dips, but lots of peaks! Moments of intense happiness. A great deal of privilege actually. No deadlines, no budgets, no targets and no goals. No one determines my time, my life or my work. No concessions! I paint everything and write even more. Abstract, figurative, realistic, naïve and every possible combination. No system, no structure.

Tomorrow different from today. That is enrichment and growth. No stagnation! I steal, profit, download, borrow, use and combine. And tell my story. That’s my job. That’s all. What you see is me. Or you. Or everyone! No muse. Everything is my subject! Inspiration and lots of positive energy. No patterns or boxes. But freedom! Intuition and feeling! No fear of uncertainty. But discovering new worlds! Live your life!

Jean-Paul Marsman