Rotterdam-based artist Daan Koens has been steadily building a name for himself in the contemporary art world since 2016. Remarkably, he is largely self-taught. Though he was briefly enrolled at the Willem de Kooning Academy, his journey as an artist took a different path. Before joining the academy, Koens had already transitioned from working with pencil and paper to painting with brush and canvas. Just four months into his studies, he made a bold and decisive move: he chose to leave the school and educate himself, pursuing his artistic development free from academic constraints, committed instead to carving out a unique and authentic personal style.

Koens is especially drawn to cityscapes and expressive portraits, with a particular focus on women. His work often captures a sense of urban dynamism mixed with emotional depth, telling silent yet powerful stories through layered brushstrokes and moody tones. His sources of inspiration span across centuries, rooted in Western art history. He draws from the intensity and emotion of 19th-century masters such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin, and more recently, he has been deeply influenced by iconic Spanish painters like Francisco Goya. These rich influences are apparent in both the themes and techniques found in his growing body of work.