oil paintings and pastels
When I create one of my oils or one of my pastels, I start by feeling and connecting with the energy of the place that I am inspired to paint.
Discover a world of art
After travelling the world and soaking up the arts and culture, I started to create pieces that combine all my experiences.
The artist
"The landscape paintings I create are inspire by places I've been. There is always a memory behind my paintings."
Wood pieces
My wood creations bring the third dimension to my paintings, as well as the dance of light on the beads.
The art
"My creations are like little windows into the expression of my soul."
Conversation with the artist
Transcribed from the interview in the Biography Video on the "About me" page.
When did you start painting?
Before immersing myself in art, I studied Western medicine in Belgium to become a doctor. I successfully completed five years of medical school. But when hospital practice became a large part of our training, I realized that it was not my calling. My sensitivity was being pushed away, and every day I felt further away from my true self. So I gathered my courage and dropped out at that point. I had no idea that I was an artist. I did not feel that this was my way. At that time I was looking for something more tangible. While traveling through the sacred lands of Tibet, I went to Mount Kailash. It all became clear to me while I was up there, and I made a wish to become a professional artist.
What is your greatest source of inspiration?
When I started my painting journey, my subjects were mainly portraits. But over time and inspired by the energy, my paintings became more abstract as an expression of my spirituality. A few years ago, I noticed a shift and began to paint animal portraits again. I love to create animal portraits; as well as pieces about landscapes and flowers.
What mediums do you work with?
For the last 20 years I have preferred to paint with oil on canvas. When I traveled, I used dry pastels on paper. Recently I started using gouache on wood; wood that we collected around our house, juniper wood. I also started to paint with acrylic on driftwood.
If you had the possibility of going back in time, would you choose the same career?
I think so, because it was not really me that chose to be an artist, but art that chose me. Once I connected deeply with myself, I felt that this was my way of expression. In this present time, it's almost a dream to live from art. In my case it's possible, thanks to the support of my family. The Universe somehow makes it work. I like to create radiant pieces, harmonious in their lines and colors. Bringing a canvas or wood surface to life fills my heart with happiness... it's like giving birth.
Do you have other experiences that you would like to share with us?
Lately I've been adding beads to some of my creations. I admire what it brings, the reflection of the light on the beads that then travels through the painting. The idea came from a dream in which an elderly First Nations woman showed me how to use the beads. Much of my inspiration comes through meditation and dreams. They are my greatest teachers. The last time we were in Tatlayoko Valley, we collected a lot of driftwood. In the blink of an eye, I imagined each animal portrait on each specific piece of wood as if they already belonged together. I am certainly fascinated by these instances of magic.