Olaf Hajek (born 1965 in Rendsburg, Germany) has made a name for himself worldwide as a celebrated illustrator and painter. As an illustrator, he has published countless books and collaborated with almost all major (design) brands. His most recent projects include a collection of vases for the Meissen porcelain manufactory. In the 2024 Christmas season, he will be designing the festive decorations for the renowned London department stores, Fortnum & Mason.
Olaf Hajek has also enjoyed great success as a painter and freelance artist in recent years. Last year, he exhibited at the Esther Schipper Gallery in Paris and presented his works internationally in Shanghai at Line Gallery.
In his works, the artist plays with motifs from flora and fauna, archaic symbols and contemporary themes. The translation into his pictorial world is as light-footed as it is vivid. He comments on aspects of artificiality in nature as well as the interdependable relationship between humans and animals and the conflicts that can arise. Hajek treats all his subjects with love and respect and shows topics such as intimacy and tenderness as well as the reappraisal of German fairy tales and fables.
