ABOUT

Hi there! Nice to meet you :)

I am a Dutch artist based in Rotterdam. I studied Fine arts and Lifestyle design at the Willem de Kooning academy. This background of 2 different ways of approaching art & design manifests itself in a wide range of different types of work. However, in all these different types of work I am searching for connection. Connection with myself, connection with others, connection with nature and our surroundings. The intention of my work is to invite myself and others to slow down to create space for that connection.

Today’s world is ruled by fast consumerism and immense flow of new information. Because of this the society is going faster and faster. However, this incredible-fast pace is harmful for human and nature; A climate crisis and mental diseases like burn outs and feelings of anxiety are the consequences.

In my work I am researching in what way I can embrace slowness more and invite others to do so as well.

Because slowness is necessary to do things with attention, and a happy side effect of attention is connection. Could slowing down and creating space for connection be a possible solution for the climate- and loneliness crisis?

I am researching this and many other questions through performances, textile art and installations.

On the other hand, I work very intuitive and personal by painting and illustrating. Although the approach might be different, the value of slowing down and the connection that arises there, remains a very important theme.

Painting and illustration are ways for me to process. This is amplified by the dot-technique I use. This repetitive technique requires a lot of time and attention, and because of that it has an almost meditative effect and invites me to slow down. In this way I come back home to myself.

In addition, I also paint furniture. This works the same as the 2D work, it is another meditative activity. My inspiration for painting furniture also comes from detailed folk art from all over the world. For example, the Aboriginal art from Australia and the ‘artesanía’ from Mexico. I love the fact that there is a lot of time and attention needed to create these types of work. This theme overlays with my quest to slowness and connection. Probably that is way I carry a deep love and respect for folk art and in this way, it serves as a big inspiration.