In February 2024, I took a leap that would change my life forever. After years of working in the fast-paced world of marketing, I decided to leave it all behind to follow my heart and passion as a full-time visual artist. This was not a decision made overnight, but rather the result of a growing desire to reconnect with my creativity, live more in tune with nature, and embrace a slower, more intentional way of life.
For a long time, I thrived in the marketing industry, but as the demands grew, so did the noise in my head. My mind was constantly filled with deadlines, strategies, and endless tasks, leaving little room for inspiration. The spark that once fueled my love for graphic design gradually faded, and I found myself feeling increasingly disconnected from the creative process that once brought me so much joy.
Mexico
A pivotal moment in my journey came during a trip to Mexico with my partner Judith and our son Otis. The vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and slower pace of life in Mexico struck a chord deep within me. I was particularly drawn to the way people lived in harmony with the natural rhythms of life, embracing each day as it came. This experience made me realize how far I had drifted from my own creative flow, caught up in the whirlwind of a hectic lifestyle.
During that trip, my artistic fire got reignited. Surrounded by the lush landscapes and warm, welcoming people, I began to see life through a new lens—one where creativity could flourish without the constraints of time and pressure. The idea of living with intention, of creating art that reflected the natural flow of life, began to take root in my mind. I returned home feeling mentally recharged, filled with new energy and thousands of ideas.
The decision
Six months after that transformative journey, followed by us moving from Amersfoort to Apeldoorn, I finally made the decision to pursue my dream. With the support of my partner Judith, our son Otis, and my close friend and fellow visual artist Frans Polman, I felt ready to take on this new chapter. Together, Frans and I have been working on building a new creative head quarters where we can both bring our artistic visions to life. As we’ve been crafting this space, a new idea emerged—a concept for an art podcast that we’re excited to explore, but that’s a story for another time.
Now, as I focus on ‘slow life abstract art,’ I’m living in harmony with the natural rhythms of life, drawing inspiration from the world around me, and finding joy in the process of creation. This shift has allowed me to reconnect with my creativity in a deeply fulfilling way, and I’m excited to share this journey with others.
If you’re interested in seeing my work up close, I invite you to visit my studio. You can make an appointment and experience firsthand the art that has come from this transformative journey. This is more than just a career change—it’s a return to my true self, and I’m excited to share it with you.
As I continue on this path, I encourage you to follow your dreams as well. Life is too short to ignore the call of your heart. Embrace the flow, trust in the journey, and let your creativity guide you to where you truly belong.