John Koenders was born in Holland in 1943, and at an early age was greatly inspired by the great Dutch Masters - unbeknown to John, he was to find out in 2006 that he is related to Vincent van Gogh! (Being a Great Grand-Nephew). A Documentary - "The Untold Story of our Uncle" - has since been made, and is currently being shown throughout the world, after being launched in Cannes, France, in 2011.

Having the desire to paint and draw came early to John. He won the European Scouting Art Award at twelve years of age, making him the youngest prize-winner since its inception.

He studied art in Europe and the University of Western Australia & in 1968, John completed a study tour of England & Europe, resulting in successful private & corporate commissions and sales worldwide.

John admires the magnificent work of Hans Heysen, & his oils of gumtrees have often been compared to Heysen's. Further inspiration has been drawn from the old English masters of watercolour - & he enjoys painting Australian scenes in the realist, old English style. The depth of colour & mellow tones obtained by this method has made John’s watercolours highly sought-after.

He paints from his Studio/Gallery at home, in Arawata, in the beautiful Strzelecki Ranges, where many successful solo exhibitions have been held. His paintings have been acquired by collectors within Australia and in many countries of the world, and are held in noted private collections, including: H.R.H. Princess Anne (The Princess Royal), Romina Power (daughter of Tyrone Power), Jeff Kennett, John Wood, Bud Tingwell, Peter Hitchener, John Howard (past Prime Minister) , Andre Rieu, Rob Gell, and past Premier of Victoria - Sir Rupert Hamer. His work was also purchased by the Museum for Applied Arts & Sciences in Sydney, to feature in the Australian Creativity and Achievements Section, and, due to many private commissions can be found in offices and Boardrooms of many large organizations, both here and overseas.

John has been a professional artist for over 40 years, during which time he has won hundreds of awards and commendations. He has judged many Art Shows & been honoured to be the Feature Artist at many Exhibitions Australia-wide. He has recently successfully exhibited in England and Europe, and in Melbourne, Victoria & has been featured in many publications including the National "Australian Artist" magazine. A book -"Art is Eternal" -featuring John's work has been published.

Member: Victorian Artists' Society; Guild of Realist Artists; Watercolour Society