Individu en masse
Hans van der Ham (NL)
In the work of Hans van der Ham his often atypical figures are not directly defined. Although most pictures are related to the human figure, they remain as such indefinable. From behind this masquerade however, they seem to expose in a different way. Faces often lack, but the attitudes speak all the more. Despite the robust clay they show vulnerability in particular, as if they discuss their own existence. Perhaps this says something about a possible hidden inner world? An adopted personae as a necessary protection against a ruthless outside world? The images do ask ourselves whether we survive as individuals in the crowd. Do we consciously hide ourselves behind a mask? Who can we trust? These are some questions Hans van der Ham asks himself. Van der Ham studied classical piano at the conservatory, before he began his studies at the art academy in Rotterdam. He makes drawings, paintings and sculptures of clay. He also enjoys fame as exhibition maker and was co-founder of Garage Rotterdam. His work can be seen at home and abroad and is represented by gallery Nouvelles Images in The Hague, The Netherlands. Hans van der Ham lives in the Hague and works in Rotterdam.
Monique Tolk
