John’s work has two distinct periods in which letters and paintings come together. His early paintings consist of colorful abstract shapes that fit together like puzzle pieces, reflecting the pleasure he found in color theory classes.

After his mother’s death in 1992, his work changed dramatically. John wrote a farewell letter to her, even though he had never learned to read or write. His caregivers encouraged him to put the letter on canvas. This resulted in paintings full of letter sequences, words, and sentences that express his feelings. As time passes, the letters transform into abstract patterns and eventually into ones and zeros—an intimate and moving visual ode to his mother.

About the exhibition Thicker than Water
In this exhibition, we highlight ‘family’ and everything that comes with it in artistic form: the joy, the tragedy, and the loss. Because family is always a part of us, thicker than water — even when the bond breaks.

In addition to Efrat’s work, the exhibition features work by Siu Lin Ho, Kitty van Straaten, Paulus de Groot, Saskia Westerhof, Nicky van der Hoeven, Anuja Hoogstad, Johanneke van Nus, and Remco Roggeveen.

Will you come and see it?
We are closed from December 23 to January 5 for the Christmas period. Before and after that, you are very welcome!

See below for a letter from Kegreisz to his mother in heaven.