Hubert Kaplan

A contemporary, post-war artist born in Munich, Germany in 1940, Hubert Kaplan is majorly popularized by his work of realistic landscapes as well as animal paintings. Being inspired by the artistic culture of his time, Kaplan curated his own design of matching landscape naturalism with a soft edge of sophistication and meticulous detail.

Kaplan began his early work at his father's craft business as an upholsterer followed by being an apprentice at a studio of a decorative painter. Realizing his inclination towards art and the ability of freedom in expression, Kaplan studied painting at the academy in Munich. During his time at the academy, Kaplan got to visit a lot of places including Greece, France, Mexico, Italy and Africa. The impact of his inspiration assimilated during his travels is reflected in his naturalistic practice.

Majorly, Kaplan found his zeal from the 1950s artistic culture in which Abstract Expressionism was dominant, a form of painting that involves expressive brushstrokes and dramatic scenes. However, in his works, it was an organic nature that possessed a spontaneous impression with carefully crafted mark-making. His craft is also a product of inspiration caught from the Alte Münchner Schule of the 19th century including painters like Lier and Schleich. A common theme in his works includes a scene from 19th century Bavaria because of which Kaplan was also awarded the 1st prize in the competition "Bavarian painters paint Bavaria" in 1981.

In 2020, Kaplan’s oil on canvas painting named Venice, Canal Grande was sold at a comparatively high price at the Stahl Auction House, marking his worldwide recognition. His work is also represented in various museums and exhibitions in Germany as well as other parts of the world.

Hubert Kaplan works and lives in Munich, Germany.