Jan Schiltmeijer: Ex-Husband of Amber Ruffin, Dutch Painter, and Sultan of Celebrity Portraits

Jan Schiltmeijer is a name that may not be familiar to everyone—unless you’re a fan of dramatic, expressive portrait paintings or happen to know him through his award-winning ex-wife, comedian and television host Amber Ruffin. A Dutch-born artist but one who is celebrated globally for his highly colored acrylic portraits of popular culture icons, Jan has carved a unique niche in modern art. Walter White to Marilyn Monroe, his subjects are instantly recognizable, yet viewed once more in Schiltmeijer’s vibrant, textured brushstrokes. His journey from Haarlem to New York, from art director to professional artist, is one of quiet determination and deep imagination.

Whereas Jan might not be looking for the spotlight, his career—and life—has drawn public attention. His decades-long marriage to Amber Ruffin, which dissolved in 2023, placed him in the limelight in America. But don’t be fooled: Jan’s legacy is solely his own. Here, the author delves into his early years, artistic career, personal life, and vision for the future, giving readers an inside look at a man whose artwork says it all.

Quick Bio

Who is Jan Schiltmeijer?

Jan Schiltmeijer is a professional painter of Dutch origin who is best recognized for his unique acrylic portraits of Hollywood stars and fictional characters. His artworks are vivid, colorful, and textured—often presenting pop culture icons from a fresh perspective. Jan is trained to work with large paintings that capture both resemblance and character, merging technique and emotional imagination. His subjects range from classic film legends like Audrey Hepburn to modern individuals like Walter White of Breaking Bad.

Though he was first trained in art direction, Jan dedicated himself entirely to painting in 2004. Ever since then, his portfolio has greatly grown, and he has won admirers in both the Netherlands and the United States. He also became well known as a husband of American comedian Amber Ruffin, whom he married for over ten years. Even though his association with him kept him within the arena of the entertainment industry, Jan is earthy within his position as a working artist.

Early Life

Jan was born in the charming city of Haarlem, in the Netherlands, and spent most of his childhood in Amsterdam. Jan came from a culturally mixed background and was always exposed to art, history, and architecture. His exposure to European artistic movements and Dutch masters during his childhood probably instilled his desire to paint. As a student, he was both academically gifted as well as having artistic talent, with a particular interest in visual storytelling.

He also underwent formal training at the Junior Academy for Art Direction in Amsterdam, a highly regarded course that instructed him in essential design and thinking skills. The three-year course developed his eye for layout, composition, and branding—skills that would prove useful later in life as a painter. After graduating, Jan pursued a career in art direction for a couple of years before finally realizing that his true calling was not behind a desk, but in front of a canvas.

Career Beginnings

Jan courageously left commercial art in 2004 to become a full-time painter. It wasn’t easy—he didn’t have a website, was not represented by any galleries, and relied on word-of-mouth. However, his intense portraits and dedication to quality allowed him to create a loyal fan base. Pop culture enthusiasts were among his initial clients, who flocked to him for his fresh interpretations of recognizables.

Jan’s style eventually evolved into a blend of photography and abstraction. He paints primarily with acrylic paint and builds his portraits in stages, layering and adding texture and depth. He then began selling abroad and his client list expanded. Even though Jan never aspired to become well-known, his paintings began to make their way to collectors, critics, and eventually to more people on the internet.

Who is Jan Schiltmeijer’s Ex-Wife?

Jan and Amber Ruffin met in Amsterdam in 2008 when Jan was on tour with the Boom Chicago comedy group. They quickly clicked, and in 2010, they were married. Amber would go on to become a household name in the United States as a writer for Late Night with Seth Meyers and also the host of The Amber Ruffin Show, while Jan remained back, supporting her quietly on the sidelines.

Throughout their 13-year union, the two had no children and were often interviewed on how they assisted one another in their professional lives. Their international, interracial love was promoted as bucking stereotypes and bucking society’s expectations. The couple, however, confirmed in December 2023 that they were breaking up, aligning with Amber’s public statement that she was queer. Although they broke up, it appears they still have some respect for one another, and Jan has remained largely silent on the details of their breakup.

Jan Schiltmeijer’s Physical Appearance

Jan Schiltmeijer stands approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm) and has a robust build, weighing approximately 89 kilograms (196 pounds). With short, brown hair, piercing dark eyes, and a warm smile, he looks just as tranquil as his paintings do. His face is approachable, with just a touch of artistic talent—a real sign of his artistic background.

Typically dressed in neat, simple clothes—jeans, button-down shirts, and paint-stained aprons—Jan exudes the quiet confidence of a man who knows his craft. He doesn’t dress up or wear flashy clothes; his work speaks louder than any fashion statement. His public life is not usual, but when he does show up, he generally does so at art gallery openings or red carpets with his former wife.

Net Worth

Jan Schiltmeijer’s net worth estimate as of 2024 is around $1 million. He earns his income primarily from commissioned portrait artwork, sales at galleries, and private collectors. His earnings were initially estimated in 2020 to be around $150,000, indicating a steady growth over the years with his exposure and customer base on the rise.

Although not a commercial mass artist, Jan has made a sustainable living by being consistent, good, and niche. Unlike the majority, who make their living on endorsements or mass promotion, he has focused on the quality of every piece. As custom artwork becomes more in demand, Jan’s value may rise even higher—especially if he expands his brand through teaching or licensing.

Social Media

Jan maintains a fairly restrained social media presence in comparison to the majority of modern-day artists. His Instagram profile (@janschiltmeijer) boasts a tasteful collection of works-in-progress, finished portraits, and studio backstage shots. With fewer than 1,000 followers, his profile is more accurately termed a professional portfolio than a personality-led feed.

While his following is small, Jan goes all-out with social media. Each update is about painting, not personal existence or ego-boosting. This keeps the focus on his art and attains a strong level of intimacy with his fans. It’s a nice change from influencer-driven art world and grants fans more insight into his art-making process.

Future Prospects and Vision

In the future, Jan Schiltmeijer doesn’t appear to be running out of steam. With more than two decades of experience and a unique style that refuses to fade, he’s poised for expansion. Whether through gallery exhibitions, collaborative paintings, or limited signed prints, his pop-culture portraiture style is timeless.

Jan can also explore educational resources—offering painting classes, selling courses online, or publishing a coffee table book with his finest works. Even though he does not want to be the center of attention, the face of digital art in the future could create new visibility and income. Wherever he chooses to go, one thing is for sure: Jan’s artwork will always be making a statement.