ArtistMeeting 2025 – Knokke

A few weekend ago was all about art, encounters, and inspiration during ArtistMeeting 2025 in Knokke. This annual event once again brought together a wide range of artists and art lovers, and I am truly delighted that I could take part with my own work.

For this edition, I presented a selection of my North Sea paintings – canvases in which I try to capture the shifting light, the movement of the waves, and the endless horizon. The sea has fascinated me for years: at once powerful and calming, unpredictable yet familiar. That tension is what I try to express in my work, and showing these paintings in Knokke, so close to the place that inspires me, made it even more special.

The reactions from visitors were truly heartwarming. Some stood still for several minutes and shared their personal stories. One visitor said, moved: “It feels as if I can actually hear the sea, just by looking at this painting.” Another remarked: “This takes me back to my childhood on the coast, with my grandparents on the beach.” Words like these touch me deeply, because they show that my paintings are not just images, but sparks that awaken memories and emotions.

In addition, ArtistMeeting 2025 turned out to be a great sales success for me. Several of my works found a new home, which is a wonderful recognition. It’s a very special feeling to know that my interpretation of the North Sea will now live on in private homes and collections, and that others are as moved by this theme as I am.

A glimpse behind the scenes

What made this weekend extra special for me was not only the visibility of my work but also the personal journey leading up to it. Setting up the booth started early in the morning: carefully hanging each painting, finding the right balance of light and space, and wondering whether everything would come together as I had envisioned. At such a moment, there’s always a bit of nervous excitement: how will people respond? Will the energy I’ve poured into my work resonate with the audience?

Luckily, those nerves quickly vanished once the doors opened. The very first visitors stopped to look, asked questions, and shared their own experiences with the sea. Between the hustle and bustle, there were also intimate moments: a child stood mesmerized, whispering: “The waves are really moving.” Encounters like these made the days both intense and unforgettable.

The combination of warm reactions, meaningful conversations, and successful sales gave me an enormous boost. It felt as if everything came together – the long hours in the studio, the preparation, and the trust to show my paintings in Knokke.

Exclusive Magazine Pollen: Photo Seascape in the afternoon

I look back on this weekend with deep gratitude. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, started a conversation, or took a piece of my work home with them. It gives me even more motivation to keep painting and to continue sharing my vision of the North Sea.

Gallery Van de Wege

Although several paintings have found new homes, a beautiful selection is still on display at Gallery Van de Wege, Kerkstraat 35, 2882 BM Putten—feel free to visit and experience them in person.