From time to time everyone waits in public spaces. Sometimes it might be a few minutes, other times much longer. Sam Reekers became fascinated by this common activity, whereby we are in transit without moving. In his detailed oil paintings, he depicts the state of being that waiting entails. He portrays people just as they are: bored, sleepy, or perfectly content, without any judgment on the waiting people or the act of waiting itself. Most of his paintings originate from photographs he took at train stations. Together, they capture often overlooked moments in life.
During the act of painting, Reekers works within a limited time frame, just as waiting has its own span of time. In this way, the subject matter and implementation converge. The size of his paintings invites viewers to stand close by. This makes observing the waiting people unexpectedly intimate. From a distance, the paintings collectively form a waiting room, of which you briefly feel part.
Text by Hagar Schuringa
Sam Reekers was born on September 28, 2001, in Eindhoven, and is currently based in Utrecht. He graduated from HKU Fine Art in 2024. Reekers’ art emphasizes the significance of everyday moments, encouraging a closer look at what might initially seem ordinary. His work is a testament to his ability to find meaning and beauty in the mundane.
2024
Best of Graduates 2024
Galerie Ron Manos, Amsterdam
HKU Exposure
Pastoefabriek, Utrecht
These Hands Think About You All, Ana Navas
Academie Galerie, Utrecht
2024
HA HA!
PEEK Pastoe, Utrecht
HYSTERIA
Ping Pong Club, Utrecht
2019
Lang Leve Rembrandt
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
Dooyewaard Stipendium 2024-2025
Winner
Buning Brongers Prize 2024
Nominated
Bachelor Fine Art HKU, Utrecht
2020-2024
Student Assistent to Lieven Hendriks, HKU
Utrecht
2024
Assistent to Mikołaj Sobczak, Rijksakademie Amsterdam
2023