VIVID AND UNSTOPPABLE: THE WORLD OF JERRY MEIJE
Artist Jerry Meije talks about his creative journey.
Jerry Charlton Meije, better known as Jerry Amsterdam, is a name synonymous with Amsterdam’s music scene, having been the heartbeat of Paradiso’s front of house for decades. But beyond the music, Jerry has carved out a space for himself in the art world as a master of vibrant linocuts and woodcuts. His bold, graphic prints, celebrated for their expressive colors and geometric forms, explore themes of movement, connection, and balance.
We sat down with Jerry to explore his inspirations, creative process, and how his art invites viewers to interpret their own stories.
How did you become an artist? Was it your master plan or something that just happened?
It wasn’t a master plan; it was more of a natural progression. My background in fashion and textiles laid the foundation. I studied textiles at Utrecht’s HKU and spent time at the Academie voor Art & Design in Arnhem, where I gained a deep understanding of patterns and structures. I’ve always been fascinated by how materials interact, whether it’s yarn, paint, or paper.
When Paradiso closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, I suddenly had the time and space to focus on creating. I went into full production mode, and with encouragement from my friend Stefan, I rediscovered my passion for art. It felt like a turning point, where everything I had learned and experienced came together to shape my creative journey.
Your use of color is striking. Can you tell us more about your approach?
Color has always been a significant part of my work, and my time at HKU and Arnhem exposed me to graphic design and traditional color palettes, which still influence me today. I also draw inspiration from Japanese martial arts and the colors of geisha; there’s something about their balance and harmony that resonates with me. I let the process guide me, focusing on how colors interact and create emotional triggers.
Your art often features strong geometric themes. How do these shapes reflect your vision?
Geometry wasn’t always a focus; I experimented with various shapes, themes, and techniques early on. Over time, I found a rhythm with geometric patterns. It’s intuitive; I think and feel my way through the process. Artists like Joan Miró, Sonia Delaunay, and Gauguin have inspired me, but I’ve developed a style that’s uniquely my own. Each piece has a story, and while they connect as a collection, I want viewers to interpret them in their way.
Art and music: connected or two entirely different fields from your perspective?
They’re deeply connected. Music has always been a huge part of my life. I’ve worked at Paradiso for 30 years, and I’ve seen legends like Prince, David Bowie, and Grace Jones perform. Their energy inspires me, and music influences the way I work, it helps me focus. Each day feels like a composition; I decide the direction I want to take and let it flow naturally.
Your background is fascinating. How has it shaped your work?
I was born in Suriname and moved to the Netherlands when I was eight. My grandfather was a shoemaker, and my grandmother was skilled at knitting everything by hand. That creative energy was always around me growing up. My childhood in Suriname was playful and free, which contrasts with the more rigid education I experienced in the Netherlands. That sense of freedom still inspires my work today.
Can you share more about your creative techniques?
I use a mix of materials, including acrylic, charcoal, and watercolors. Techniques such as wet-on-wet and monotype enable me to experiment with layering and textures. It’s about finding balance; sometimes you have to mess things up before creating the perfect piece. My goal is always to create work that evokes a “trigger moment” for the viewer.
What’s next for you?
I’m constantly exploring new directions. I’ve spent 25 years in textiles and five years in painting, and I’m excited about blending these mediums. I’m also delving into black-and-white lithography, silk printing, and sculpture. One day, I would love to open my own gallery, a space where I can collaborate with other artists and showcase fresh ideas every month. For me, it’s all about pushing creative boundaries.
