Wim Blom
Wim Blom, born Willem Adriaan Blom on February 22, 1927, in Germiston, South Africa, (†18 January 2021) was a remarkable artist
known for his precise and timeless work.
Wim was one of South Africa’s most important painters and is leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate art enthusiasts.
Here are some key points about Wim Blom:
1.
Artistic Journey:
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Wim received his Fine Arts MA degrees from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
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He pursued post-graduate studies at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and the University of Perugia in Italy.
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As an art historian, he held positions such as Research Curator at the National Gallery of Canada.
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His artistic journey took him to Italy, Spain, and other parts of Europe.
2.
Realism and Contemplation:
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Wim Blom adopted an intensely realistic approach to painting still lifes and images of uninhabited interiors.
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His work invites private contemplation, appealing to those who appreciate form, color, texture, and light.
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While faithful to the objects he represented, his realism transcended reality, submerged beneath poetic transformation.
3.
Collections and Exhibitions:
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His work is represented in public collections, including the National Gallery of Canada, the South African National Gallery, and
The Royal Scottish Academy.
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Numerous corporate and private collections worldwide feature Wim Blom’s art.
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He exhibited internationally, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
4. Appointments
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Commissioner for Canadian Entries at the Venice Biennale and Sáo Paolo Bienal
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Curatorial Administrator, National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, ON
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Research Curator, National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, ON
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Editor of the Bulletin of the National Gallery of Canada
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Assistant to the Curator, Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, ON
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Lecturer, Department of Fine Arts, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Instructor in drawing, Johannesburg Art School, Johannesburg, South Africa
Known for his innovative approach, Wim Blom continually pushes the boundaries of traditional painting. Whether through abstract
explorations or more representational work, his art invites reflection and dialogue, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary
Canadian art. His exhibitions, both in Canada and internationally, underscore his commitment to evolving his artistic vision and
engaging audiences with works that resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels.
“Wim Blom was one of South Africa’s most important painters, and we were fortunate to have him make Canada his
permanent home. Wim leaves behind a legacy that continues to captivate art enthusiasts.”