Dutch photographer Erwin Olaf dies at 64 After Lung Transplant

Wednesday, September 20, 2023
 Dutch photographer Erwin Olaf dies at 64 After Lung Transplant

Erwin Olaf passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday morning at the age of 64, a few weeks after undergoing a lung transplant. This has been confirmed by the photographer's manager on behalf of the family to ANP.

In 1996, he was diagnosed with emphysema, a serious lung disease."He was recovering, but suddenly became unwell and resuscitation was unsuccessful," reads the statement from the family. Olaf's manager said that more information about the opportunity to say goodbye will be released later this week.

Born in Hilversum on July 2, 1959, Olaf became internationally known for his work, which he said "celebrates diversity in all its forms" and focuses particularly on marginalized individuals.

His work often includes a thought-provoking style with lots of nudity, which was initially seen as provocative. Olaf exhibited in the Netherlands and abroad.
Erwin Olaf had a special connection with the Dutch royal family. In 2013, Erwin Olaf designed the new Dutch euro coins featuring King Willem-Alexander, who was inaugurated that year. Four years later, he also created the official portraits of the royal family. In 2019, he was appointed Knight of the Order of the Netherlands Lion.
Image :Erwin Olaf (r) with Dutch King Willem-Alexander (l)