Berlin based Olaf Hajek is one of the world’s most successful and well-known illustrative artists. His work is regularly featured in leading publications around the world, from New York Times to Rolling Stone, in advertisements for major international brands, and even on stamps for Great Britain’s Royal Mail.

Olaf’s work shows strong influence from Frida Kahlo, Boticelli, and Cuban advertising posters from the 1960s. His imagery explores the opposition between reality and fairytales, and incorporates elements of South American folklore, mythology, religion, history, and geography.

I absolutely love the way Hajek doesn’t muck around when it comes to colour – his work takes full advantage of the entire colour spectrum. Hajek’s images are generally created by applying acrylic to cardboard, giving them an added depth and a texture resembling an artificial patina. So good, they are giving me Extreme Love symptoms!

 

[Images courtesy of Olaf Hajek.]



About The Author

Founder & Editor

With a disarming blend of authority and approachability, Dana is a former refugee-turned-global design visionary. Through her multi-faceted work as a creative director, keynote speaker, editor, curator, interior designer and digital publisher, Dana empowers others to appreciate and engage with design in transformative ways, making the sometimes intimidating world of design accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the subject. Dana's been catapulted to the status of a stalwart global influencer, with recognition from industry heavyweights such as AD Germany, Vogue Living, Elle Décor Italia and Danish RUM Interiør Design, who have named as one of the Top True Global Influencers of the Design World and counted her among the most visionary female creatives on the planet. Her TEDx talk—"Design Can Change the Way You See the World"— will challenge and transform your understanding of design's omnipresent and profound influence. Through her vast experience in interiors, architecture and design, Dana challenges the prevailing rapid image culture, highlighting the importance of originality, sustainability, connecting with your values and learning to "see" design beyond the aesthetic.

5 Responses

  1. helen

    The most inspiring and beautiful work that I have seen in a long time; thank you.

    Reply
  2. Igor

    Hi Dana, found you through Twitter & love your blog. Olaf Hajek is a great artist. I bought one of his original art prints in a local gallery here in Germany and it is my favorite art piece at home!

    Reply
  3. Will - Dovcor Bathrooms

    Wow these prints remind me of my youth. My grandparents loved things like this, so much so that they had a collection of items.

    Olaf Hajek is certainly very talented, if unconventional at times. I wish I had a print like Igor!

    Reply

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