2025-07-24

BEHIND THE PAINTINGS: Charly, sweet sixteen

CHARLY

Not every commission begins with an email. Sometimes… it starts right in your own backyard.

There she was—Charly’s mother. A lively woman from the village with bold taste, someone I already knew. She’d seen my work before, popping up on Facebook: from my exhibition at Mooie Ogen eyewear boutique in Schagen to the garden exhibit I hosted at home. Curious, she asked what I create, what’s possible… and whether I’d consider making something special for her daughter’s sweet sixteen. Something lasting. Something that might surprise her now, but be cherished with pride later.

She gave me full creative freedom. And for an artist, that alone is a gift.

The photo I worked from was a spontaneous, colorful selfie of Charly—taken on her phone and secretly shared by her mother. Her personality shone through: curly hair, a striped turtleneck, and a necklace with tiny charms—one of them a heart. That heart became central in the painting, hanging over the hand I added. A subtle support under her chin, and a symbol of self-confidence.

Around her, I built a collage in layered fragments: from Disney characters to Twiggy, Marlon Brando to Sophia Loren. A blend of iconic classics and modern flair. I left her face white, outlined in pink accents that highlight her curls and contours—a pop-art statement brimming with individuality and strength. In the top-right corner, I included her favorite song lyric: “Je had me bij hallo” by Antoon, sprayed in petrol green with a heart and arrow stretching over the frame.

On the upper left and right edges, colorful spray paint dots drip down in pink, yellow, and orange—a burst of celebratory energy pouring from the piece. And on the frame itself? The word LOVE, graffiti-style, in a gradient from pink to yellow, bordered in black. A small cross marks the “O.” Her name, Charly, sits beneath the Chanel logo—a double C that reflects her personality in this piece.

At the heart of the work is the quote: “Do it with passion or not at all.” Not just a quote, but a reminder. A message that suits her mother—full of spirit and character—but also encourages Charly: you’re young, so go for it… but stay true to what feels right. A phrase designed to stick.

As a finishing touch, I applied a layer of epoxy resin. It adds a glossy finish and seals the emotion and energy within like a visual time capsule.

Charly’s received the painting. She was happy. And with sixteen-year-olds, you never quite know what they’re really thinking. But her mom shared her spontaneous reactions: “How did he know I love pink?” “That lyric from Antoon!” “My necklace…”

Every detail noticed. Recognized. Felt. According to her mom: mission accomplished.

An artist couldn’t wish for more.

Would you like a personal artwork that moves and endures? A commissioned piece for a birthday, anniversary, or a moment worth celebrating? Take a look at my website or send me a message. Every painting begins with a story—maybe yours.