Cor Schaap, born in Katwijk aan Zee, has a deep connection with the sea and the beach, which is clearly reflected in the oil paintings he creates. Beach scenes are a recurring theme in his oeuvre, which he executes in a modern impressionist style. This connection to the beach and the sea is rooted in his family history; Schaap's father was a fisherman, his grandfather a fish merchant, and his grandfather a shellfish fisherman. Trudy, Schaap's wife, also has family ties to the sea, which live on today in, among other places, the eponymous Schuitemaker fish shop in Katwijk.

Despite this background, Cor Schaap chose a creative career, and although he initially intended to pursue his education at the art academy in The Hague, he shifted his focus there to the design and media sector. Around 2019, Cor Schaap decided to make a complete turnaround. He withdrew somewhat and focused entirely on painting. This choice had not only an artistic but also a therapeutic motivation.

During his artistic development, Cor Schaap received guidance from various painters. An important mentor was Niek van der Plas, who gave Schaap valuable advice. In 2019, Hans Versfelt shared his technique with Schaap 'en plein air' in Kijkduin. However, by far the most knowledge was imparted by Joop van Leeuwen, the well-known Hague Impressionist. A beautiful hardcover book (90 pages full color) has been published about the period when Schaap and Van Leeuwen painted together under ISBN/EAN number 9789090360959.

Modern Impressionism

Schaap continues to evolve constantly, and with it, his style. The new, exclusive gallery work already forms a special chapter within his oeuvre and is finding increasing appreciation among enthusiasts and collectors. It is moving towards larger formats: sunny, colorful, and atmospheric paintings in an evocative visual language. With a loose, fluid touch, he creates sketchy impressions that evoke a warm and sunny feeling, without getting lost in details.