I was born on Texel (or rather, in Den Helder, because that is where the hospital was located) and grew up amidst the sea, wind, and clay. When I was six, we moved to Den Helder, and then to Warmenhuizen, where I lived until I was twenty-three. I have now been living in The Hague for several years, a larger city where I immediately felt at home.

I was far too headstrong for a long school career, and I started painting when I was sixteen. Back then, people were quick to say: “You’re a girl, don’t expect too much.” But things turned out differently; I proved to be one of the best in my year. That gave me the confidence to go my own way and keep experimenting.

After a short search, I came across Novacolor, and that was exactly what I was looking for: materials that would let walls speak.

In my previous painting business, I did that on the side a bit, but it got buried under the other work.

After a while, I decided to stop, take a step back, and start again with fresh eyes.

That is how Wandjuweel came into being. A name for something that is truly mine. They say what gets attention, and that proved to be true. I collected some old photos, started sharing my work, and more and more people managed to find me.

Now I enjoy working on walls and projects that can handle a little something extra. No standard colors, no smooth perfection, but something with individuality, color, and feeling. And the more trust I receive, the freer and more creative my work becomes.