Wouldn’t it be intriguing to uncover the history behind a gallery named “Serieuze Zaken” meaning “Serious Business” in a city celebrated for its artistic flair? Rob Malasch a man of many talents founded Serieuze Zaken. He was known as a quirky theatre type and journalist.
Serieuze Zaken Studioos once stood as a gallery showcasing diverse art. It featured Brit Art and works by contemporary Chinese painters. Rob Malasch’s journey is as captivating as the art he presented. He transitioned from a school teacher in the Jordaan. He then became a foreign correspondent before finding his niche in the art world.
Malasch himself stumbled into the world of art somewhat unexpectedly. He bought a house with several empty spaces on the Lauriergracht. This led him to the idea of starting a gallery. And so Serieuze Zaken was born. Malasch’s approach to art was driven by intuition. He always looked at the scope of possibilities.
Malasch enjoyed a 20-year career as a gallery owner. After that he became an art advisor. He shared his experience and knowledge with collectors. He admitted that predicting which young artists would become world-famous was like roulette. He made the most profit from the pieces he didn’t sell. Malasch had a knack for spotting young talent.
Malasch once taught in the Jordaan. He had to get creative to manage his class. He bought a giant wooden hammer and threatened to use it on any child who misbehaved. It worked. But he soon realized teaching wasn’t for him.
Malasch then studied modern dance and became an art teacher. He created theatre shows and worked as a foreign correspondent. He later returned to the Netherlands and started Serieuze Zaken. He bought several buildings on the Lauriergracht at a bargain price.
The gallery’s name Serieuze Zaken suggests a formal atmosphere. But Malasch infused it with his personality. He advised younger generations to embrace a bit of chaos. He told them to not fear failure.
Think about the stories these walls could tell. Consider the artists who found a platform here. Serieuze Zaken embodies Amsterdam’s spirit. It’s a blend of serious artistic endeavor and quirky charm.