Waterlilies

Henri Hess (born 1950 in Eindhoven) is a contemporary Dutch painter best known for his colourful, expressive landscapes, floral subjects, still lifes, village scenes, and waterscapes. Although he originally trained as a carpenter, his artistic talent was evident from an early age. Beginning in 1967, he studied drawing and painting for nearly a decade at the Vrije Academie in Eindhoven under Peter ‘t Hoen and Jan Kuhr, while also learning from fellow Brabant painters Louis Ector and Frans Manders.

For many years Hess painted alongside his regular work in the timber trade. In 1983 he committed himself to painting full-time. He often works en plein air, travelling through the Brabant countryside and northern France to sketch and paint directly from nature. The banks of the Dommel River, heathland pools, French harbours such as Honfleur, and quiet rural landscapes have all been recurring sources of inspiration.

Hess’s style is rooted in Impressionism but has a distinctly personal character. He applies oil paint boldly with both brush and palette knife, using thick, textured layers (impasto) and vibrant colour. His paintings aim to capture the atmosphere and light of a scene rather than photographic detail. Over the years his palette has evolved from darker earth tones to brighter, more luminous colours reminiscent of the French Impressionists, while maintaining recognisable forms and a strong sense of place.

Among his favourite subjects are flowers, particularly tulips, poppies, and water lilies, along with tranquil ponds and reflections. His water-lily paintings are admired for their rich colour, textured paint surface, and peaceful mood, qualities that make them popular with collectors.

Today, Henri Hess continues to work from his studio in the Brabant region and regularly exhibits his paintings in Dutch galleries. His works are held in many private collections in the Netherlands and abroad.