About the artist

When I was a young girl, two things brought me immense joy - my dog and drawing. I attended a Montessori school where, after completing my daily tasks, I had the freedom to pursue what I loved most: drawing. This school encouraged me to explore various materials, fostering creativity not only during school hours but also at home.

I vividly recall those cherished moments at home, with my dad watching skating on television, my mother engrossed in embroidery, and me seated at a low table in the living room, lost in my drawings. During that period, I felt a boundless sense of freedom, believing I could draw anything and reveling in the unrestricted use of colors. Drawing became my outlet for imagination and creation.

As I progressed to high school, however, I found myself constrained, forced to adhere to specific subjects and styles. This stifled my desire to create and led to a loss of confidence and imagination over the years.

It wasn't until my early fifties that the urge to create resurfaced. Longing for the joy I felt as a child, I mustered the courage to enroll in painting lessons, where I encountered a fantastic teacher. Through assignments that allowed creative flexibility, I gradually regained confidence and rediscovered the joy of artistic expression. Learning the importance of freedom and experimentation, I was grateful to rekindle my true passion.

Encouraged by positive reactions to my artwork, I enrolled in lessons at the Vrije Academie in Nunspeet, hoping to further develop my skills. Whether it's a portrait, animal, landscape, or still life, detailed or abstract, with a brush or palette knife, and using oil paint or acrylics, I love exploring diverse forms of art.

My artistic intention is to capture the mesmerizing beauty of the world around us. I believe there is infinite beauty in careful observation, even in things that may appear less attractive at first glance. Shifting perspectives often reveals fascinating aspects.

My studio is nestled in the quaint village of Vierhouten, on the fringes of the enchanting Veluwe forests in the Netherlands. Here, surrounded by nature, I continue to pursue my passion for art.

Giving back

In August 2023, I moved to the small village of Vierhouten and decided to volunteer at a shelter for single young refugees. These youngsters, aged between 14-18, had left their families and countries to escape danger. It's a sobering thought – could you imagine it being your own child? Upon their arrival in the Netherlands, none of them spoke Dutch. Every week, I conduct art classes for them, providing a space where they can draw or paint. These afternoons serve as a reprieve from their harsh realities, helping them cope with stress and adjust to their new home.

Hosting these teenagers, who come from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds, and assisting them in creating their own artwork brings me immense joy. Utilizing the universal language of the arts, I aim to teach them new skills and boost their confidence. Painting becomes an outlet for them to express their emotions and clear their minds. During these sessions, I foster a relaxed environment where they feel safe to chat, learn some Dutch words, and simply have fun.

As time passes, many children have moved on to different locations, and new faces have arrived. Being a part of their integration journey through painting is a truly gratifying experience.