BIOGRAPHY
Bastiaen Vries is an artist based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, who focuses on portraiture. His work reflects a fascination with human expression and the subtle nuances that make each person unique.
In 2024, Bastiaen joined the art group ‘Masters of Realism’. That same year, his work was showcased at the Chianciano Art Biennale in Italy. In 2023, he was invited to participate in the London Art Biennale, where he received the Chianciano Museum Award.
In 2022, he gained wider recognition through his participation in the television program ‘Sterren op het Doek’ (Stars on Canvas). In the episode featuring Rob Kemps, his portrait was selected as the winner. That same year, he was ranked among the top 10 in the ‘Painting of the Year 2022’ competition. Additionally, his work was exhibited at the biennial ‘Weekend of the Portrait’, organized by the Dutch Portrait Prize Foundation.
Before dedicating himself fully to painting, Bastiaen worked as a head designer in the fashion industry. His education at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute played a significant role in his artistic development, particularly through its emphasis on life drawing and creative techniques.
Art runs deeply in his family. His great-grandfather painted landscapes and portraits well into old age, while his mother, despite a busy life, found time for drawing and painting. These familial influences nurtured Bastiaen’s love for art from an early age.
In addition to his own work, Bastiaen supports people with aphasia through the Marline Fritzius Foundation. He helps them explore artistic expression through painting, drawing, and sculpting. The process of creating, with all its unexpected twists, constantly reminds him of the complexity of life and the unifying power of art.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My work revolves around capturing the human face in all its vulnerability, strength, and mystery. Each portrait is more than just an image; it is an encounter and a quest to reveal the essence of the subject. Through Human Realism, I create portraits that breathe emotion and depth—portraits with a soul.
I am fascinated by the skin and the interplay of light, color, and texture that brings it to life. Each human face carries a unique story—a universe of emotions waiting to be discovered: strength, pain, joy, love, and so much more. My brushstrokes follow the structure of bones, glide over shadows, and make the skin almost tangible. Warm tones convey vitality, while cool accents add depth and contrast. With every layer, I build a story that ultimately reflects the inner strength and vulnerability of the subject.
When a portrait begins to come to life, a special moment occurs. It feels as though the person in the painting looks back at me, engaging in a silent, profound conversation. In that instant, a connection forms between the subject, the artwork, and myself—a moment of true encounter.
My goal is for my work to resonate with viewers—not only to show a face but to create a connection, a reflection of our shared humanity. I hope that my portraits offer moments of calm, recognition, and introspection in a world full of motion.
At present I also work part-time as:
- Art Mentor supporting people with aphasia as they create art, at Foundation Marline Fritzius.
- Coordinator at Atelier Marline Fritzius Amsterdam
1970 Hendrik Hebo ten Berge, my great-grandfather
1969 Sacha Vries-van Poorten, my mother
photo: ©Frans Vries F3
1989 – 2021
Bastiaen has been Head of Creative Design for various fashion companies, like Triumph International, HEMA, Miss Etam, and more.
click for portfolio fashion design
Furthermore lecturer and committee for Art Academies, like Artemis and AMFI.
Coach of creative people and consult for fashion companies.
©bastiaenvries
bastiaen art 