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
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“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.”