Derek Kaplan Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Derek Kaplan is a Zimbabwean-born abstract artist best known for his vivid, emotion-driven paintings and his high-profile marriage to real–estate star Fredrik Eklund.

Introduction

Derek Kaplan (born February 20, 1975) is a self-taught, Zimbabwean-born abstract artist whose vibrant works draw on his early life in Africa and his journey through finance into art. His estimated net worth stands at about US$1 million, derived largely from private art sales and gallery exhibitions. 
Kaplan is married to Fredrik Eklund, a well-known real-estate broker and reality-TV personality. Their relationship — and shared family life — often draws interest alongside his rising art career. 

Quick Facts

Painting a Path from Finance to Fine Art

Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Derek Kaplan’s childhood was steeped in the rich hues and dramatic landscapes of the African savanna. The natural beauty surrounding him — tropical grasses, vivid skies, and shifting storm clouds — seeded an early love of art. 

Though recognized by teachers for his artistic talent in school, Kaplan initially opted for a more conventional path. In his early 20s, he moved to London and spent roughly fifteen years working various jobs and entrepreneurial ventures. Despite this more stable career, the pull of art never dimmed. 

In 2013, Kaplan made the bold decision to leave behind business for painting full-time. He began selling works privately — friends, acquaintances, early collectors — and slowly built a reputation. 

Defining moments in Derek Kaplan's journey include:

• Recognizing art as a child in Zimbabwe, inspired by nature’s colors and moods. 

• Living in London for over a decade, gaining business experience while preserving a dream of creativity. 

• The decision in 2013 to commit to art full-time, leaving a more conventional path behind. 

• First international solo exhibition in Stockholm in 2013 — a breakthrough that affirmed his talent and market potential. 

Through these experiences, Kaplan transformed from a finance-oriented professional to a respected abstract artist, crafting a unique narrative that fuses his Zimbabwean heritage, global exposure, and inner creative drive.

The Core Pillars of Derek Kaplan’s Wealth

Kaplan’s financial footprint — modest compared to many celebrity spouses — is built on a few key pillars:

Despite the already notable success, his net worth remains relatively modest — estimated at around US$1 million. 

Love, Family & Shared Lives

Kaplan’s personal life has often drawn more public attention than his finances. He is married to Fredrik Eklund — a high-profile real-estate broker and star of reality television — and their relationship has become a celebrated icon of love and partnership in the spotlight. 

• The couple married on February 9, 2013, in an intimate ceremony on Little Palm Island, Florida. 

• Together, they welcomed twins — a daughter and a son — via surrogacy in November 2017: daughter Milla and son Fredrik Jr. 

• Kaplan also has an older son, Kai, from a previous relationship. 

Key insights into Derek Kaplan’s relationships and personal life:

• His marriage to Eklund links the worlds of high-end real estate, reality TV fame, and fine art — offering cross-industry visibility.

• Their family life reflects a blend of creativity, stability, and love, enhanced by openness about surrogacy and blended family dynamics.

• Kaplan’s art — though not as lucrative as Eklund’s real estate career — appears deeply personal and emotionally driven, suggesting his creations are motivated by passion rather than profit. 

Beyond Paintings: Lifestyle, Home & Interests

Beyond career success, Derek Kaplan leads a life that reflects both creative passion and family values:

• He currently resides in Miami, Florida, where he maintains an art studio. 

• His art — often abstract, emotionally rich, inspired by the landscapes of his African childhood — conveys a sense of longing, memory, hope, and inner peace. 

• Through social media (e.g., his Instagram presence), he shares glimpses of his family life, artworks, and creative process — connecting with fans and art lovers alike. 

• While not known for extravagant displays, his lifestyle appears grounded: art-focused, family-oriented, and modest compared to traditional celebrity excess. 

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Kaplan’s net worth estimation reflects both his art business and his auxiliary income channels:

Because publicly available information places his net worth at roughly US$1 million, most of his wealth is tied directly to his art sales, commissions, and perhaps the indirect benefits of being connected to a high-profile spouse. 

It’s important to note that — unlike many celebrity couples — most wealth accrual here comes from genuine artistic output and private transactions, rather than large corporate deals or brand endorsements.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

In public perception, Derek Kaplan occupies a somewhat understated but deeply respectable position: that of a passionate artist whose work transcends borders, grounded in memory, emotion, and natural beauty.

• Among art collectors and viewers, his paintings are appreciated for their emotional depth — abstract yet evocative, often evoking the colors and moods of African landscapes. 

• His marriage to Eklund brings visibility beyond the art world, placing him in the spotlight of reality TV fans and mainstream media — which broadens his reach and adds personal narrative to his artistic identity.

• Social-media presence underscores a message of love, family, and authenticity. Posts often feature his children, his partner, and his artwork, which helps humanize a lifestyle often glamorized.

Though not yet a billionaire or global celebrity in his own right, Derek Kaplan represents a bridge between art, family, and fame — building a legacy that balances creative integrity with personal happiness.

Conclusion

Derek Kaplan’s journey — from the vibrant plains of Zimbabwe to art studios in Miami — is a testament to the power of personal passion. With a birthdate of February 20, 1975, and a modest but real estimated net worth of around US$1 million, he stands not as a flashy celebrity, but as a dedicated artist and family man whose life narrative resonates with quiet authenticity.

His marriage to Fredrik Eklund and their shared family of three children highlights a story of love, acceptance, and shared ambition. Kaplan’s art, deeply rooted in early memories and natural beauty, continues to draw admiration from collectors and fans worldwide — giving him a legacy not just of financial value, but of emotional and cultural resonance.

In a world often driven by excess, Derek Kaplan’s life reminds us that success can be defined by creativity, authenticity, and the courage to follow one’s own path.