ISABELLA

Work from the series "I AM"

This series tells the stories of a handful of women, who indirectly represent women all over the world. I try to convey the story, personalities and character of these ladies, while also trying to inspire the viewer to search their true authentic self when they look into their eyes. What do you see in them? Can you guess their story? What is your first impression? Looks can be deceiving…And when you look closely, what then...do you see in yourself? What is your story? What do you portray to the world?

And is it real?

ISABELLA

This painting is part of a series of women from South Africa. ISABELLA means ‘devoted to God'. And oh my…ISABELLA is as devoted to her image as one can possibly be. She is a fashion designer, editor, and art collector. She is a trend setter, a cat-lover, and bi – because it’s trendy. It does confuse her though…the attraction for both sexes makes her question who she is. ISABELLA represents all women that are attracted to the same sex. Some might indulge in their feelings, while others might fight it because they find it confusing and overwhelming.  

She absolutely loves anchovies and she owns over 16 bottles of expensive imported craft gins. Has never drunk them though. It’s for show. She works 50 hours a week. On weekends she tries out dating sites because she trusts more in the algorithm than her own judgement. She hangs out in art galleries, fancy night clubs and she just loves going to the movies where she can get lost in another reality. ISABELLA has a surprising habit–she always makes a sandwich for the man on the street corner that begs for food. 7 days a week. Even on a free day she will make sure he gets his sandwich. He knows her name and with every sandwich, ISABELLA gets a grateful smile and a blessing. It is those blessings that bring her back to him every day. It feels like the only real thing in her life. She will keep on bringing him sandwiches until she figures out why she needs to hear his words so much. 

“Oh ISABELLA, you crave words of life because deep inside you know that is all that can sustain your soul. I hope you figure it out before it is too late.”