Jan Roëde Charity Exhibition – De Vrolijkheid: art that brings a smile

Art that brings a smile

“It’s important that, when I create something, I myself – as the first viewer – am brought to a smile.”

With these words, The Hague-based artist Jan Roëde (1914–2007) expressed his view of art. His colourful paintings and drawings convey optimism, wonder and a zest for life. Following the success of the charity exhibition in June, the Jan Roëde Foundation returns to Pulchri Studio with a new selection from its collection. Jan Roëde was one of the best-known artists in The Hague’s post-war art scene and was a member of the influential Posthoorngroep. Inspired by Zen Buddhism, he developed a distinctive style full of vibrant colours, playful lines and gentle humour. His art invites you to pause for a moment and view the world with a smile.

Art for children in asylum seeker centres

The Jan Roëde Foundation is using the proceeds from the exhibition to support Stichting De Vrolijkheid. Every week, this organisation runs more than a hundred creative workshops for children and young people living in asylum seeker centres across the Netherlands.

For these children, art offers a safe way to express themselves, discover their talents and build resilience. In this way, the exhibition ties in seamlessly with Jan Roëde’s wish to continue using art as a source of inspiration, connection and hope.

Buy a work of art with meaning

A special selection of paintings and works on paper is available for immediate purchase in the Mesdag Room at Pulchri Studio. Previous charity exhibitions were a great success and collectively raised over €61,000 for the De Vrolijkheid Foundation.

By purchasing a work of art, you are not only bringing an original work by Jan Roëde into your home, but you are also making a direct contribution to art projects for children who could really do with a helping hand.