The difference between single works and series
A single painting can capture a moment, an image that stands on its own, such as a family portrait or a commissioned work. But when works develop within a series, it becomes visible how an idea unfolds. Motifs return, shift, disappear and reappear in a different form. Within such a sequence, it is not a single image that is explored, but an entire line of thought, and in my case, a feeling.
Working in series allows me to observe what happens as an image develops. One work may still be searching, the next sharpens something, while another opens a new direction. In this way, the result is not a predetermined image but a sequence in which works remain connected to one another. That connection may arise through symbols, colour, or thematic elements.
Sometimes this coherence develops through the continued exploration of the same symbol or subject. Within a series I can experiment with variations and repetitions, without fixing the image too quickly.
For me, a series is therefore not a simple repetition, but a way of approaching a theme, a symbol, or a certain atmosphere from different directions.
How ideas develop across paintings
Ideas grow through sketching and experimenting with materials. There is often a theme or concept that gradually develops during the process of working. A first painting may introduce a certain atmosphere, colour, or symbol. In the following works, these elements begin to shift or blend with one another.
During the process I repeatedly look at what I have made. Sometimes I turn the work upside down and look again. I try to sense what is present on the canvas and ask myself: is the feeling I want to convey clearly there?
Most often, a series of sketches forms my starting point. Even then, changes can still occur while painting. Colour and texture play just as important a role as composition.
By working on several paintings around the same idea, an image can develop step by step. To understand the broader context of my work, you can read more on the Artist Vision page.
Compact series in my practice
In my work I often develop ideas through small, compact series. When a theme emerges, I do not explore it in a single work but across a sequence of paintings. The scale of such a series is never predetermined. Some series consist of three works, while others grow to fifteen or even more than twenty paintings.
Sneaky hidden sunflowers
One example is the series Sneaky Hidden Sunflowers. In this series I worked directly on paper with the chosen material. The connection between the works lies in the repetition of a single composition, with a strong focus on capturing light. A small field of sunflowers was translated into an exploration of light that emerges prominently within the composition. Investigating that light became the guiding force behind the series.
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Icelandic houses
Other series, such as Icelandic Houses, developed from a different starting point. Here the roughness of the Icelandic landscape meets the steadfast presence of seemingly small houses. This series is still ongoing, because the subject continues to resonate with me. For me it goes beyond landscape; it touches on ideas of survival, forces and counterforces. Something that is also visible in society and that many people recognise within themselves.
The symbol of the house has since been explored further in a new series. From this motif new insights and directions continue to emerge, which I investigate on paper, on canvas, and in three-dimensional forms.
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available work
Let’s connect
Curious to drop by my studio in Voorhout, interested in one of my works, or thinking about a potential collaboration? I’d be glad to hear from you. I enjoy working with collectors, curators, galleries, designers, architects, interior creatives, and brands.
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