Art on a Postcard for War Child UK

About 

Ralf Kokke’s paintings are a celebration of the archaic and the universal, embodying the timeless themes of paradise, nature, and the harmonious coexistence of humans, animals, and the divine. Born into a family of dockworkers, Kokke draws upon his childhood memories and dreams to craft his visions of a world that is both idyllic and fantastical, where the boundaries between reality and imagination are blurred. 

Inspired by the fairy tales of Peter Pan, Pinocchio, and Sleeping Beauty, Kokke paints from the perspective of a child, capturing the sense of wonder and innocence that is so often lost in adulthood. Yet at the same time, he is acutely aware of the need to grow and mature, to let go of the comfort and safety of the paradise he depicts and embark on a journey of self-discovery. 

In his work, Kokke draws upon the archetypes of Carl Jung, the imagery of cave paintings, Egyptian art, and Sumerian art, to create a visual narrative that transcends cultural and historical boundaries. Through his use of universal symbols and themes, Kokke invites the viewer to rediscover the world through the eyes of a child and to be transported to a place where dreams and reality coexist in perfect harmony. 

Education 

2011 – 2014 ROYAL ACADEMY OF FINE ART ANTWERP Bachelor of Fine Arts, painting 

Select Exhibitions/Awards 

2022 

HANS ALF GALLERY  

Copenhagen – Bedtime Stories (SOLO) 

GALERIE GERHARD HOFLAND 

Art Rotterdam 2022 

KRISTIN HJELLEGJERDE GALLERY 

Schloss Gorne – UPRISING 

MEPAINTSME 

Rogue Gallery 

Gallery Representation 

Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery 

You must not reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, resell or exploit any works. In doing so, you endanger our relationships with artists, and directly jeopardise the charitable work we do. Anyone found doing so will be subject to legal action.