Celebrity Info
The painter, Derek Kaplan, made a striking debut with his first solo exhibition in June 2013 at the Couture Gallery Contemporary Art Space in Stockholm, Sweden. That pivotal moment marked the beginning of an exciting journey for Derek Kaplan, whose growing reputation soon opened doors to multiple art shows across New York City. Over time, Derek Kaplan cultivated a strong online presence, amassing an impressive 120,000 followers on his Instagram account, @hisderekkaplanart, where fans regularly engage with his vibrant work. Before fame found him, Derek Kaplan drew deep inspiration from the vivid colors and raw beauty of the African savanna—particularly the tropical grasslands and the dramatic intensity of seasonal rainfall. This early connection to nature profoundly influenced his artistic style. Eventually, Derek Kaplan relocated to New York, where he married Fredrik Eklund, a well-known realtor. In 2017, the couple welcomed twins, Milla and Fredrick, through surrogacy—a joyful milestone in their lives together. Through each chapter, Derek Kaplan has continued to evolve, both as an artist and as a person, leaving a meaningful mark on the contemporary art scene.
He decided to pass up on art school after high school, choosing instead to focus on building a more financially stable future through entrepreneurship in London. While many of his peers headed off to creative programs, he felt drawn toward a different kind of challenge—one that offered not just passion, but practicality. He believed that starting fresh in London would open doors, and over time, he began carving out a name for himself. He wasn’t entirely leaving creativity behind; rather, he was channeling it into something new. Every step forward reminded him of the choice he made—he didn’t go to art school, but he was still creating something meaningful. Looking back, he saw that decision as a turning point, one that shaped not only his career but also his identity. He proved that success doesn’t always follow a traditional path—sometimes, he just has to build his own.
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