Onno Meeuwsen was born in Houten on August 20, 2002. From a young age, he felt different from his peers, a sense of otherness that became more pronounced during his teenage years. His journey towards self-acceptance began around the age of 16, and it was during his time at HKU that Meeuwsen started to channel his reflections on identity and sexuality into his art. His initial explorations grew into a focused critique of queer dating culture, particularly through the lens of Grindr.
His process involves building small installations with colorful fabrics and everyday objects, which he photographs and then translates into his paintings. This method allows him to create rich, multi-layered compositions that challenge viewers to reconsider the ways in which queer men interact and present themselves in digital spaces. Through his art, Meeuwsen seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities within the queer community, making visible the often hidden struggles and dynamics at play.
Onno Meeuwsen
For Best of Graduates 2024, Onno presents a series of still lifes that delve into the complexities of queer identity and relationships. His work, inspired by the dating app Grindr, explores themes of anonymity, objectification, and the power dynamics prevalent in the queer dating scene. Meeuwsen’s paintings juxtapose daily life objects to symbolize individuals, each composition inviting viewers to question the connections and relationships between these objects.