Henk van Os, the renowned art historian and former director of the Rijksmuseum, passed away leaving behind a legacy of making art accessible to all. He was known for his engaging television programs and his commitment to popular education.

Van Os, who served as the director of the Rijksmuseum from 1989 to 1996, believed that art provides individuals with the opportunity to understand the world around them. He strived to communicate about art in a simple and understandable manner, avoiding complex terminology.

His journey to becoming an art historian wasn’t initially supported by his parents. His father, a reformed minister, doubted the feasibility of such a career. Van Os convinced them by jestingly threatening to become a tennis teacher, which he characterized as being a “gigolo” for wealthy women. This led him to study art history in Groningen.

Before leading the Rijksmuseum, Van Os graduated cum laude with a doctorate on medieval painting from Siena. Later in life, he worried about the diminishing support for art and culture. He was disappointed by culture cuts. He believed accessible television programs about art could reverse this trend. During his time as director, he successfully attracted more Dutch visitors to the Rijksmuseum.