Hans Varenhout lives in Dinxperlo (born in 1954 in Ede). He attended the Teacher Training College in Arnhem and studied pedagogy in Groningen. For over 40 years, he worked in the (primary school) sector in Appelscha, Dinxperlo, Beek, and Zeddam, initially as a teacher and later for many years as a school principal. He taught drawing with enthusiasm, but it wasn’t until after his active teaching career that he began painting himself in 2021, first with acrylics, later with oils.

In his search for his own style and approach, he primarily created realistic portraits, but also landscapes and other subjects. Hans Varenhout studied under Cees Roorda, Robert Jansen, Hans van Weerd, and Marian Merk. The diverse styles and approaches of these “teachers” helped him develop his own unique style.

In September 2025, Hans Varenhout exhibited his works as part of the Aalten Art Route and in group exhibitions at the Koppelkerk and the church in Drempt. In March 2026, some of his works will be exhibited and offered for sale at Kerkje De Rietstap in Dinxperlo.