Henk van Os was associated with the University of Amsterdam from 1994 and was appointed university professor of Art and Society in 1996. In this role, he brought scientific insights to society in a unique way. He managed to enthuse both students and the general public about art and culture, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and social significance. He frequently appeared on various TV programs. He was a valued speaker and inspirer at museums in the Netherlands and abroad.

He supervised doctoral students and undergraduates, his lectures in the university’s auditorium in front of more than 500 people were legendary, and his involvement in university life was intense and sincere. In addition to his scholarly work, he was frequently active in organizations such as the Royal Academy of Sciences and the Holland Society of Sciences. He was a tireless advisor to various foundations.

Even after his retirement in 2003, Henk van Os remained committed to students and the future of the university. He remained active as a university professor until 2017. Upon his retirement, he established the Henk van Os Fund at the Amsterdam University Fund, through which he gave generations of Humanities students the opportunity to gain international study experiences.

His conviction that travelling and learning abroad contribute substantially to academic and personal development underlies the fund - as it once did for himself when a scholarship enabled him to spend a year in Italy. Until his death, he remained involved in the selection and stories of the students who traveled the world with his support. His legacy lives on in all the students who have gratefully benefited from this Fund or will do so in the future.

His commitment, erudition and warm personality made him an inspired ambassador of the academic community.

We are deeply grateful for his great contribution to science, culture and our students.

Peter-Paul Verbeek
Rector Magnificus

Marieke de Goede
Dean Faculty of Humanities