Jan Schiltmeijer & Amber Ruffin: Love, Art & Divorce - Explained

Peyton Larson 16 May 2025

Is it possible for a chance encounter to blossom into a lasting love story, only to later fade into the echoes of the past? In the case of Dutch painter Jan Schiltmeijer and American comedian Amber Ruffin, it was a whirlwind romance that captivated many, a tale of transatlantic connection, artistic expression, and the inevitable complexities of life.

The threads of their intertwined lives began to weave themselves together in 2008. Amber Ruffin, then embarking on her creative journey, made the bold decision to relocate from Chicago to Amsterdam. Her ambitions led her to join "Boom Chicago Amsterdam," a comedy troupe, and she found herself increasingly drawn to the energy and artistic vibrancy of the European city. It was during this period, while living in Amsterdam, that she would meet Jan Schiltmeijer, a Dutch painter whose passion for art was matched by his captivating personality.

Their paths crossed in New York City, a place that would become a significant backdrop to their relationship, a place where both had been, at one point, residing. In 2010, after a period of dating, the couple decided to take their relationship to the next level and they married. The union was a blend of cultures and artistic sensibilities, a celebration of shared passions and individual talents. Schiltmeijer, with his Dutch roots and talent for acrylic portraiture, and Ruffin, the rising star of the American comedy scene, found a common ground in their shared love for creativity. The couple's shared life was a testament to the power of finding love across cultural boundaries, a true transatlantic romance.

However, as with all human endeavors, the path of true love did not run entirely smooth. The pair's eventual divorce in 2023, after thirteen years of marriage, marked the end of a chapter. The reasons for their separation remain private, but the news resonated with many, as people grappled with the realities of even the most seemingly idyllic relationships.

In 2004, Schiltmeijer started painting, and quickly realized he was able to bring happiness to people with his art. He had relocated to the United States in the early 2010s with the desire to expand his clientele and showcase his exceptional talent to a larger audience.

Schiltmeijer's work is known for its vibrant use of color and striking compositions. His portraits often capture the essence of his subjects, drawing viewers into their world with a unique attention to detail. His website, which is a window into his artistry, displays portraits of renowned figures, from the legendary Bruce Lee to Bryan Cranston's Walter White, and many more. His artistic vision is a testament to his skill and his passion for his craft. The artists Instagram account, with more than 900 followers, provides a glimpse into his world, and further proof of his passion for art.

Here's a glimpse into the life and career of Jan Schiltmeijer:

Category	Details
Full Name	Jan Schiltmeijer
Date of Birth	Unknown
Place of Birth	Haarlem, Holland
Nationality	Dutch
Education	Unknown
Occupation	Painter, Art Director
Known For	Acrylic portraiture, celebrity portraits, former spouse of Amber Ruffin
Artistic Style	Bold colors, striking compositions, attention to detail
Notable Works	Portraits of Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali, Marilyn Monroe, Walter White (Breaking Bad), and C-3PO
Website/Social Media	Jan Schiltmeijer's Website, Instagram: @janschiltmeijer
Net Worth	Estimated $150,000
Relationship	Divorced from Amber Ruffin (2023)

The year 2008 was a pivotal moment for both Schiltmeijer and Ruffin. It was the year that Ruffin, already a rising star in the comedy world, relocated to Amsterdam, marking the start of a new chapter in her life and career. While she pursued her work with the comedy troupe, she also met Jan. At the same time, Schiltmeijer was honing his artistic skills, experimenting with techniques, and developing the unique style that would become his signature.

Schiltmeijers work is characterized by his meticulous attention to detail. He meticulously captures the play of light and shadow, the textures of skin, fabric, and background elements to give his paintings a sense of realism. This precision is combined with a use of bold colors and striking compositions. These elements work in synergy, drawing viewers into the world of his subjects. It is this interplay of color, texture, and composition that defines the essence of his craft.

In 2010, they decided to marry. Their wedding was a moment of joy, a symbol of their commitment to each other. Their relationship was a blend of their individual creative paths. She, the comedian and writer, and he, the artist, came together, their lives intertwined. But, life, as it often does, presented new challenges. After 13 years of marriage, the couple decided to go their separate ways. This was a time of change for both, each embarking on their new journeys.

Amber Ruffin, who had been married to Jan Schiltmeijer until their split in 2023, began an Instagram post on June 30, saying in what will come as a shock to exactly zero people, Im using the last." Her candid admission about their split sparked an outpouring of support from fans and celebrities alike, highlighting the strong connections Ruffin had made in her professional and personal life.

During their years together, both had made significant strides in their respective fields. Amber Ruffin rose to become a prominent figure in the world of comedy and television, while Schiltmeijer established himself as a painter. Their relationship had become a source of fascination for many, as people watched them build careers and lives together. The news of their divorce marked a change in their personal stories.

Ruffin's work continues to thrive, with her role as a writer for "Late Night with Seth Meyers" since 2014, as well as her own show, The Amber Ruffin Show. Meanwhile, Schiltmeijer remains dedicated to his art, finding fulfillment in his artistic endeavors. His journey, marked by passion, dedication, and a unique perspective on the world, continues to evolve, as he explores new avenues of artistic expression.

The story of Jan Schiltmeijer and Amber Ruffin reminds us of the complexities of love and life. It is a tale of two creative individuals, their paths crossing, their lives intertwining, and their journey marked by both shared joy and the ultimate challenges of change.

The couple's story continues to resonate, reminding us of the impact that individual choices and unforeseen circumstances can have. The story of Jan Schiltmeijer serves as a reminder of the human experience, the constant interplay of connection, creativity, and the continuous search for meaning in a world that is always in motion.