Dutch painter Jan Schiltmeijer has created vibrant acrylic masterpieces for over 20 years. His distinctive “layer over layer” technique has captivated art enthusiasts worldwide. He started his full-time painting career in 2004 and quickly became a unique voice in contemporary art.
The sort of thing I love about Jan Schiltmeijer’s work is his broad range of subjects. His portfolio features iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali. He also paints pop culture characters such as Walter White from Breaking Bad and C-3PO from Star Wars. Amsterdam-born Schiltmeijer now lives in New York, where he continues to develop his artistic vision while keeping a relatively low public profile.
Many people know Jan Schiltmeijer through his former marriage to Amber Ruffin. Their relationship lasted from 2010 until their divorce in December 2023. However, Schiltmeijer’s artistic accomplishments stand on their own merit. Let’s take a closer look at this talented Dutch artist’s path, from his early beginnings to his current position in the art world.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Haarlem and Amsterdam
Jan Schiltmeijer was born in the beautiful city of Haarlem, Holland. He spent his early years in Amsterdam’s rich cultural setting. The Netherlands, home to legendary artists like Rembrandt van Rijn and Vincent van Gogh, left a deep mark on his artistic soul. His natural talent for visual storytelling and creative expression showed up early.
Amsterdam’s lively art scene became the perfect backdrop for young Schiltmeijer’s growing talent. World-class museums and galleries surrounded him. The city’s deep respect for artistic expression helped shape his understanding of art as a powerful tool that stirs emotions. These early years would later shape his unique painting style and choice of subjects.
Studying Art Direction at Junior Academy
Schiltmeijer finished his elementary and high school education in Amsterdam. He then made a big choice to get formal art training. The Junior Academy became his next stop, where he focused on Art Direction. This three-year program turned out to be the life-blood of his artistic growth.
His time at Junior Academy taught him essential skills:
- Visual composition and design principles
- Color theory and application
- Technical artistic skills
The formal education did more than sharpen his technical skills. It broadened his view of art. His detailed training set him up well for his first job in advertising and laid the groundwork for his future as a painter.
Transition from advertising to painting
After school, Schiltmeijer started his career as an art director. He spent about two years putting his creative skills to work in advertising and marketing. His heart pulled him toward greater creative freedom and self-expression.
The year 2004 marked a brave turn in Schiltmeijer’s life. He left the safety of advertising behind to become a full-time painter. This bold move kicked off his real artistic trip. Painting gave him something advertising couldn’t – complete creative control and a chance to explore his own artistic vision.
The switch paid off well. People quickly noticed his artwork’s exceptional quality, and his business took off. Schiltmeijer soon developed his signature style that featured bright colors and rich, layered compositions.
The Rise of a Painter
Starting his painting career in 2004
Jan Schiltmeijer took a bold step in 2004 when he made painting his full-time profession. He left his stable advertising job and soon found that his artwork struck a chord with viewers. His talent spoke for itself – he built a strong client base before he even had an online presence. The way his paintings spread by word of mouth showed just how much people loved his work.
Developing a unique acrylic technique
Schiltmeijer’s work stands out because of his distinctive “layer over layer” technique with acrylic paints. This careful method gives his pieces incredible depth and texture. His artwork shines with deep, rich colors and vivid imagery. The multiple layers he applies create an intensity that has become his artistic signature.
Subjects of his work: icons and everyday objects
Schiltmeijer’s talent shows in many different subjects. He really shines at portraiture, and brings iconic figures to life with amazing detail. His celebrity subjects include:
- Marilyn Monroe and Nina Simone
- Characters like Walter White from Breaking Bad and C-3PO from Star Wars
- Sports legends such as Muhammad Ali
The artist sees beauty in simple things too. His still-life paintings turn regular items like jelly beans and cleaning products into engaging works of art. This mix of subjects shows how he can lift both the extraordinary and everyday to new heights.
Use of high-quality materials and tools
Quality sits at the heart of Schiltmeijer’s artistic philosophy. He only uses premium acrylic paints that keep their color and last for years. His canvases are chosen for their durability, and he works with top-grade equipment. This steadfast dedication to quality means his pieces not only look stunning but also make valuable additions to any collection.
Love, Marriage, and Public Attention
Meeting Amber Ruffin in New York
Life changed forever for Jan Schiltmeijer in 2008 when he met American comedian Amber Ruffin in New York. Schiltmeijer was enjoying his vacation from Amsterdam while Ruffin toured with Boom Chicago, an American comedy theater based in Amsterdam. Their story began outside a downtown bar where Ruffin stood smoking a cigarette as Schiltmeijer walked past. This chance meeting sparked a connection that blossomed into something deeper.
Life as a supportive partner in the U.S.
The couple tied the knot in 2010. They moved to New York City in 2011, where Schiltmeijer made a bold choice. He left his 15-year-old painting business in Amsterdam to support Ruffin’s growing comedy career. Through their marriage years, Schiltmeijer stood firmly behind his wife’s professional dreams while she became a prominent figure in American television.
Public perception of their relationship
Their relationship stood out for its playful nature. They regularly forgot their wedding anniversary and laughed about it later. Ruffin shared in a 2022 interview how they completely missed their third anniversary. This became a yearly tradition, and she compared their relationship to “two 14-year-old boys” who high-five days after missing important dates. Ruffin also wrote a touching essay about interracial marriage challenges in America. She described teaching Jan how to direct himself differently when they were together.
Divorce and its emotional aftermath
Their thirteen-year marriage ended with a divorce finalization in December 2023. Divorce brings complex emotions – research shows that couples experience emotional distress after separation, whatever their relationship quality. Both continue to pursue their careers with unwavering dedication.
Life Today and Artistic Legacy
Living and working in Brooklyn
Jan Schiltmeijer lives in Brooklyn, New York, where he creates his distinctive artwork. The Dutch artist stands about 6 feet tall with light brown hair and hazel eyes. He has made his mark in New York’s vibrant art scene. His move to the United States opened new doors to showcase his talents and connect with different audiences.
Maintaining a low-profile personal life
Schiltmeijer chooses to keep his personal life away from the spotlight these days. Despite his past connections to public figures, he prefers a quieter lifestyle that focuses on his creative work. He loves animals, especially dogs, and sometimes shares pictures of his furry friends on social media. Beyond his art, he enjoys boxing and takes interest in political and social issues close to his heart.
Online presence and where to find his work
You can find Schiltmeijer’s work through several online channels. His portfolio shines on his official website (janrschiltmeijer.wixsite.com/paint), while his Instagram account (@janschiltmeijer) gives you a peek into his creative process. His social media following may be modest at over 900 followers, but the engagement feels real—mostly from art lovers, fellow artists, and clients.
How his art continues to evolve
Schiltmeijer stays dedicated to his artistic path even after his divorce. He regularly adds new creations to his website and pushes boundaries in both style and subject matter. His artwork keeps its signature energy and movement, drawing more collectors who love his bold colors and emotional depth.
Conclusion
Jan Schiltmeijer’s artistic experience shows his steadfast dedication and development as an artist. He transformed from an advertising professional to a full-time painter in 2004, which started a remarkable career that thrives today. His signature “layer over layer” acrylic technique has fascinated audiences for two decades, creating works with extraordinary depth and visual intensity.
Life brought major changes – a move from Amsterdam to New York and a thirteen-year marriage to comedian Amber Ruffin. Yet Schiltmeijer’s dedication to his artistic vision never wavered. His portfolio showcases versatility and artistic consistency through iconic celebrities, pop culture figures, and reimagined everyday objects.
This Dutch painter’s quiet life in Brooklyn lets him concentrate on his craft instead of seeking public attention. His art speaks volumes because he thought over the choice to keep a low profile. Of course, this approach works well as his paintings strike a chord with collectors and art enthusiasts.
Schiltmeijer’s story shows how artistic paths rarely follow straight lines. An artist’s experience takes shape through life changes, personal relationships, and new locations. All the same, true artistic passion endures whatever the circumstances. His work demonstrates how quality materials, distinctive technique, and authentic expression create lasting artistic value.
Art enthusiasts can find Schiltmeijer’s growing body of work on his website and Instagram. Though his following remains modest compared to many contemporary artists, people deeply appreciate his bold colors, emotional depth, and technical expertise. This Dutch artist’s untold story proves that sometimes the most compelling artistic experiences happen away from the spotlight, driven by passion rather than publicity.
FAQs
Q1. What is Jan Schiltmeijer’s signature painting technique? Jan Schiltmeijer is known for his unique “layer over layer” technique using acrylic paints. This method creates extraordinary depth and texture in his compositions, resulting in artwork characterized by deep, rich colors and strikingly vivid imagery.
Q2. What subjects does Jan Schiltmeijer typically paint? Schiltmeijer’s portfolio is diverse, featuring both iconic figures and everyday objects. He specializes in portraiture, painting celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali, as well as pop culture characters. He also transforms ordinary items like jelly beans and household products into captivating still-life paintings.
Q3. Where is Jan Schiltmeijer currently based? Jan Schiltmeijer currently lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. After relocating from Amsterdam, he has established himself in the vibrant New York art scene, continuing to create his distinctive artwork.
Q4. How can art enthusiasts view Jan Schiltmeijer’s work? Art lovers can discover Schiltmeijer’s work through his official website (janrschiltmeijer.wixsite.com/paint) and his Instagram account (@janschiltmeijer). These platforms showcase his portfolio and offer glimpses into his creative process.
Q5. What materials does Jan Schiltmeijer use in his artwork? Schiltmeijer is committed to using high-quality materials in his art. He exclusively employs premium acrylic paints for longevity and color integrity, selects durable canvases, and uses only high-grade equipment throughout his creative process.
