In Memoriam: Prof. Dr. Chris Stolwijk (1966–2025)
It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of our former director Chris Stolwijk. Chris was an enthusiastic art historian who left an unforgettable impression on many people in the field of art history in the Netherlands and far beyond. Chris studied Political Science and Art History at VU University Amsterdam and Utrecht University. In 1997, he obtained his PhD in Utrecht with a groundbreaking study on the position of art and artists in the Netherlands between 1850 and 1900. His academic sharpness and passion for art took him to Utrecht University and later, to the Van Gogh Museum.
Chris's expertise lay in Western European painting from ca.1800 to 1920, with a particular focus on Vincent van Gogh and his network. At the Van Gogh Museum, he led prestigious projects such as the Van Gogh Letters Project and Van Gogh's Studio Practice. Moreover, he contributed to exhibitions that touched and enriched the public, including Van Gogh and the Colours of the Night and Paul Gauguin: The Breakthrough to Modernity.
Since 2012, Chris has been the general director of the RKD – Netherlands Institute for Art History. Under his leadership, the RKD has grown into an internationally leading institute, with a strong focus on digitisation, accessibility of collections and collaboration. His vision was clear: art history should not only be preserved and studied, but also shared – with everyone, worldwide.
In addition to his work at the RKD, Chris held numerous other positions, including professor at Utrecht University, chair of the Association of Research Institutes in the History of Art (RIHA) and advisor to the Rembrandt Society. His substantive involvement is evident from his many memberships of committees and editorial boards that helped shape the cultural landscape. His publications testify to his profound knowledge, sharp pen and lasting influence on the field. His legacy lives on in the collections he helped to access, the people he inspired, and the art history he enriched.
His contribution to the field remains of lasting value.