Too much to be still

Sharing my story

Let me begin by introducing myself. My name is Sonja van Klaren. I was born in Rotterdam (1956), where I lived for nearly sixty years and worked for 43 years with dedication and joy as a teacher in vocational education. I now live in Ridderkerk, where I am involved as an artist in the local Kunstroute Ridderkerk.
But now, let me take you on my creative journey. I have always had a passion for creating — beginning with an education in arts and crafts. Yet my true adventure in painting did not really begin until I was 63, inspired by a video about an abstract artist.
“I can do that too,” I thought — and bought my first canvas. Sometimes you simply need a little push to step across a threshold.

My artistic discovery

For many years, I worked in screen printing — a highly precise process in which every stage of printing must be carefully conceived and prepared in advance. Much of my current work is the opposite.
My painting journey began when an inspiring video gave me that final push. It opened up a world of experimenting with colours, textures, and forms. I enjoy working intuitively and watching each piece develop organically. It brings me a deep sense of fulfilment, confidence, and immense joy.

Diversity, colourful, atmosphere

What characterises my art is the vibrant colour palettes, tension and letting go and the unique atmosphere each piece radiates. Art evokes emotion — whatever that emotion may be. Art tells a story without words. You are free to complete that story with your own words, associations, thoughts, and feelings — just as I did while painting it. My story does not have to be yours.

 

Inspire and wonder

 

My wish is that my art brings you joy and invites you to look with a sense of wonder. I hope that my personal story and the energy within my work inspire you to embrace your own creativity. There is something truly special about creating something, and I hope you will experience that.

 

I hope my work inspires you and fills you with wonder and brings you at least as much joy as it brings me to create it.

 

 

Sonja van Klaren - Too much to be still