ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Olaf Hajek's Surreal Illustrations Blend Cultural Influences in Upcoming Exhibitions

exhibition · 2026-03-26

Berlin-based illustrator Olaf Hajek creates dense, dreamlike compositions that draw from Surrealist traditions, folklore, and global travels to develop a universal visual language. His work emphasizes ambiguity through techniques like superimposed florals and figures, exploring themes of gender fluidity and connections between nature and culture. Hajek maintains parallel practices of intuitive paper sketches and more structured canvas paintings. He has several exhibitions scheduled, including a group show at Feinkunst Krüger in Hamburg and solo presentations at Museum Franz Xaver Stahl in Erding and Kaplan Projects in Palma de Mallorca.

Key facts

  • Olaf Hajek is a Berlin-based illustrator creating surreal compositions
  • His work references Surrealist artists Leonora Carrington and Remedios Varo
  • Hajek blends folklore, spiritual practices, and natural motifs from global travels
  • He employs techniques like superimposed florals and dramatic scale shifts to create ambiguity
  • Upcoming exhibitions include shows in Hamburg, Erding, and Palma de Mallorca

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Feinkunst Krüger
  • Museum Franz Xaver Stahl
  • Kaplan Projects

Locations

  • Berlin
  • Hamburg
  • Erding
  • Palma de Mallorca

Sources