Artist Profile

“My mission is to explore the relationship between what we see around us and what we experience internally. My work is about translating perceptual states into visual language.

I am particularly interested in creating atmospheres that awake our sense of wholeness. I use juxtaposing effects and expansive fields of colors as well as vibrating and dissolving accents to evoke energy and interconnectivity.

I draw my inspiration from the many connections and landscapes I have encountered, from the familiar communities in Belgium where I spent my childhood, to the grounded yet vivid surroundings of South Africa, where I now live. I start with my memories of colors and atmosphere. I then let the process guide me to create an image that links my memories with the present moment to capture “the now.”

I believe that art should serve as a reflection of our innermost being - a mirror we hold up to both society and ourselves, enabling us to confront the complexities of our world. My intention is to encourage the observer to ponder what he or she is looking at with the ultimate goal of fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for our shared humanity.

One of my favorite “visual words” is the use of paper parts. This mark-making technique holds a special place in my heart due to its universal symbolism. From its simple, joyful evocation of childhood play to the intricate patterns that narrate stories similar to Aboriginal art, it’s a tool that allows me to weave narratives within my work.

My process involves abstract collage, painting with acrylic, drawing with oil pastels, sketching portraits and taking digital photography. I navigate between series of small works, large-scale canvases and in case of commissioned artworks i also use personal co-creation experiences as a tool to capture the “now” and the “authentic energy” of the person being portrayed.

Throughout my life I have been strongly influenced by artists from the color field movement, like Helen Frankenthaler, and by Lionel Smit’s large-scale contemporary portraits.

With unwavering dedication, I work tirelessly to refine my skills and infuse my pieces with a unique energy and passion while seeking to reveal my true self through art.”