Joop van Egmond - The Frisian Wadden Sea near Firdgum

Joop van Egmond (1943 - 2018) was active as a visual artist in many disciplines, such as drawing, etching, sculpting, and painting in watercolor, acrylic, and oil. He is also known under the pseudonym 'MOND'. His versatility resulted in a diversity of movements and techniques.

In his early years, he worked in a strongly naturalistic style, but in his later work, he continued to seek forms of expression that speak the language of simplicity. Translating various subjects in an almost 'primitive' manner, in which man in his pure form of joy and emotions occupies a central place, was an increasing source of inspiration for him.

His colorful, abstract landscapes were inspired by the work of the Frisian painter Gerrit Benner. Like Benner, he was obsessed with the Frisian landscape. However, the work of the artist collective De Ploeg (Groningen) also had a major influence on Van Egmond. In addition, Expressionist influences are visible, such as those from the German artist collective Der Blaue Reiter. In the last two decades, he painted colorful oil paintings of Italian, French, and Dutch landscapes. The paintings exude a powerful brushstroke and vibrant richness of color.

Joop van Egmond (MOND) was greatly drawn to the vast coastal landscape of Northwest Friesland, where the land gradually merges into the Wadden Sea. He visited regularly to find inspiration and experience the silence. Firdgum is situated on an old salt marsh ridge, a slightly elevated ridge in the former salt marsh landscape. From here, you look out over the open meadows, the sea dike, and the Wadden Sea.

This painting primarily emphasizes space, light, and the movement of air and water. The small sailboats and the low horizon enhance the sense of infinity. At the same time, the soft, pastel-like colors give the rugged Wadden landscape an almost serene atmosphere.