MUTS

Illustrations

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Short story about my color paintings

After years of making various illustrations for clients and newspapers, I am taking a new path with my artwork. It's not that I'm leaving the period I refer to above and make no longer illustrations for the various media, no, certainly not. However, I get a lot of pleasure from my sketch work and in this way I want to give my new material a more prominent place.

Garlic

Materials I use

  • All kinds of brushes
  • Talens Rembrandt watercolor
  • Winsor & Newton watercolor
  • Canson 300gr cold pressed paper
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Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite

Beaumont-du-Ventoux, Vaucluse, France

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Landscape with hay bales

Bourg, Haut-Marne, France

I will regularly write a small blog here

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France

Flag FranceLavender field near Grignan

Grignan, Drôme, France

Lavender field near Grignan, Drôme, France

Year: 2024

The lavender fields near Grignan, in the Drôme Provençale region of southeastern France, have been cultivated for centuries, originating in the Middle Ages. Lavender farming intensified in the 20th century, driven by the growing demand for essential oils and perfumery. The region's climate and soil are ideal for lavender, making it a primary location for high-quality production. Grignan, with its picturesque landscapes and historic Château de Grignan, attracts many tourists each summer when the lavender blooms. Today, the fields are not only an agricultural asset but also a symbol of Provençal beauty and tradition.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceAbbaye de Senanque

Gordes, Vaucluse, France

Abbaye de Senanque, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

The Abbey of Sénanque, founded in 1148 by Cistercian monks, is nestled in Provence, France. This Romanesque abbey flourished in the Middle Ages, supported by agriculture, particularly lavender cultivation. It faced decline and abandonment during the French Revolution. The monks returned in 1854, restoring the abbey to its former glory. Today, it remains a working monastery and a popular tourist destination.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceSunset over vineyard

Tulette, Vaucluse, France

Tulette, Drôme, France

Year: 2024

Tulette, nestled in Drôme, began as a Roman settlement known for its fertile vineyards. In the Middle Ages, it became a fortified village, safeguarding its residents from invaders. The Renaissance era brought prosperity, marked by the construction of the grand Château de la Croix. The 19th century saw Tulette flourish as a cultural hub with lively markets and fairs. Today, its rich history is reflected in its charming streets and ancient architecture.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FrancePont Roman

Nyons, Drôme, France

Nyons, Drôme, France

Year: 2024

The Pont Roman in Nyons, France, is a medieval stone bridge built in the 14th century. It spans the Eygues River and is notable for its single arch, which stretches an impressive 43 meters. Constructed between 1341 and 1407, it was a significant engineering feat of its time. The bridge played a crucial role in local trade and transportation. Today, it stands as a historical monument, reflecting the architectural ingenuity of the medieval period.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceBetween Malaucène and Le Barroux

Road D938, Vaucluse, France

Between Malaucène and Le Barroux, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

The D938 road between Malaucène and Le Barroux in Provence, France, winds through picturesque landscapes characteristic of the Vaucluse region. Historically, this route facilitated local agricultural trade, connecting the villages nestled in the foothills of Mont Ventoux. Over time, it evolved to accommodate increasing tourist traffic, attracted by the region's natural beauty and historic sites. The road passes near the medieval Château du Barroux, a notable landmark. Today, it remains a popular route for cyclists and travelers exploring Provence's charming countryside.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceChapelle des Pénitents Blancs

Mazan, Vaucluse, France

Chapel in Mazan, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

The Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs in Mazan, France, dates back to the 17th century, serving as a place of worship for the local religious brotherhood known as the White Penitents. This lay fraternity, devoted to acts of charity and penance, constructed the chapel to facilitate their spiritual practices. Over the centuries, the chapel has seen various restorations, preserving its historical and architectural heritage. It features notable frescoes and a simple yet elegant design reflective of the brotherhood's values. Today, it stands as a cultural and historical monument, attracting visitors interested in Mazan's religious history.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceMoulin Sorine

Santenay, Côte-d'Or, France

Moulin Sorine, Santenay, France

Year: 2024

Moulin Sorine, perched in Santenay, dates back to the 19th century, serving as a crucial windmill for local agriculture. Once a vital grain mill, it fell into disrepair before being restored in the 20th century. This iconic structure, now a beloved landmark, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. Its restoration symbolizes Santenay's commitment to preserving its heritage. Today, Moulin Sorine stands as a testament to the region's rich agricultural past and its enduring beauty.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceCol de Rousset

Chamaloc, Vercors, Drôme, France

Col de Rousset, Chamaloc, Vercors, Drôme, France

Year: 2016

The Col de Rousset is a mountain pass located in the Vercors Regional Natural Park, Drôme, France. It sits at an elevation of 1,254 meters and is part of the Vercors Massif. This pass is popular for both cycling and winter sports, offering stunning views and access to various outdoor activities. The Col de Rousset also features a tunnel, which was drilled in 1979, connecting Die to the Vercors plateau. It’s a gateway to adventure, including the famous Grande Traversée du Vercors.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FrancePont Roman

Nyons, Vaucluse, France

Pont Roman, Nyons, France

Year: 2024

The Pont Roman in Nyons, France, was constructed in 1409 and stands as an impressive medieval bridge. Spanning the Eygues River, it was a critical crossing point for trade routes in the region. The single arch design, with a span of 43 meters, was an engineering marvel of its time. It survived multiple floods and wars, symbolizing resilience and architectural ingenuity. Today, it remains a prominent historical landmark and a testament to medieval engineering.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceUsine céramique carrelages

Decize, Nièvre, France

Usine céramique carrelages, Decize, Nièvre, France

Year: 2024

The Usine Céramique in Decize, Nièvre, was established in the late 19th century, becoming a significant producer of ceramic goods. Renowned for its quality craftsmanship, the factory played a crucial role in the local economy, providing employment and boosting trade. Over the years, it adapted to changing technologies and market demands, maintaining its reputation for excellence. Despite facing economic challenges in the late 20th century, the factory's legacy endures through its contributions to the ceramic arts. Today, Usine Céramique remains a symbol of Decize's industrial heritage and artisanal tradition.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceChâteau de Costaérès

Ploumanac'h, Bretagne, France

Château de Costaérès, Bretagne, France

Year: 2024

Château de Costaérès, located on an island off the coast of Brittany, was built in the 19th century by Polish engineer Bruno Abdank-Abakanowicz. This stunning neo-Gothic castle quickly became a symbol of luxury and retreat for artists and intellectuals. During World War II, it suffered damage but was later restored to its former glory. Over the years, it has been owned by several notable figures, including the French actor Jean Dujardin. Today, Château de Costaérès stands as a picturesque landmark, reflecting Brittany's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceLes Dentelles de Montmirail

Vaucluse, France

Les Dentelles de Montmirail, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Les Dentelles de Montmirail, a striking mountain range in Provence, formed over 200 million years ago due to geological upheaval. Named for their lace-like limestone ridges, these peaks have long attracted hikers and climbers. The Romans cultivated vineyards on their slopes, a tradition that continues today with renowned Rhône Valley wines. In medieval times, the area was fortified with castles and villages. Today, Les Dentelles de Montmirail are cherished for their natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceLes Dentelles de Montmirail

Vaucluse, France

Les Dentelles de Montmirail, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Les Dentelles de Montmirail are also a hotspot for biodiversity, hosting unique flora and fauna, including rare orchids and peregrine falcons. The range offers panoramic views of the Rhône Valley and Mont Ventoux. Additionally, it is a popular destination for rock climbing, featuring over 600 climbing routes.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceChamaret

Vaucluse, France

Chamaret, Drôme, France

Year: 2024

Chamaret, a charming village in Drôme, dates back to the Roman era, with evidence of ancient settlements. Its most notable landmark, the 12th-century tower, is a remnant of a once-grand medieval castle. In the Middle Ages, Chamaret thrived as a fortified village, protecting its inhabitants from invasions. The village's prosperity continued into the Renaissance, marked by the construction of beautiful stone houses. Today, Chamaret is celebrated for its historical architecture and picturesque landscapes, attracting visitors from around the world.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceMont Ventoux

Vaucluse, France

Mont Ventoux, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Mont Ventoux, visible from the Baronnies region in France, has a storied history. Known as the "Giant of Provence," it stands at 1,909 meters and has been a prominent feature in local culture and geography for centuries. The mountain gained fame in 1336 when Petrarch climbed it, marking one of the earliest recorded recreational ascents. Its challenging terrain and stark beauty have made it a renowned stage in the Tour de France. Today, Mont Ventoux remains a symbol of natural majesty and historical significance, attracting hikers, cyclists, and tourists.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FrancePuyméras

Vaucluse, France

Puymeras, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Puymèras, a charming village in the Vaucluse department of France, boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Initially a strategic settlement, it flourished in the Middle Ages with its fortified structures and prominent church, Saint-Michel. The village was part of the Comtat Venaissin, under Papal rule until the French Revolution. It retains a medieval character with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Today, Puymèras is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and thriving vineyards.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceCaromb

Vaucluse, France

Caromb, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Caromb, located in the Vaucluse department of France, has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The village developed significantly in the Middle Ages, evidenced by the 14th-century Saint Maurice church and its ancient ramparts. It became a hub for agriculture and viticulture, thriving under the influence of the Popes of Avignon. Caromb's historic windmill, Moulin à Huile, is a testament to its olive oil production heritage. Today, Caromb is known for its charming old town and vibrant local traditions.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FrancePont Vieux

Sauve, Gard, France

Sauve, Gard, France

Year: 2024

Pont Vieux in Sauve, located in the Gard department of France, is a historic medieval bridge that dates back to the 12th century. It was constructed to facilitate travel and trade across the Vidourle River. The bridge features a series of distinctive arches, showcasing the engineering prowess of the medieval period. Over the centuries, it has been a vital connection for the town, enduring various floods and restorations. Today, Pont Vieux stands as a picturesque and enduring symbol of Sauve's historical heritage.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FrancePuy de Dôme

Puy de Dôme, France

Puy de Dôme, France

Year: 2024

Puy de Dôme is a dormant volcano in the Massif Central, located in the department of Puy-de-Dôme in France. It last erupted around 10,700 years ago and is part of the Chaîne des Puys, a chain of volcanic cones and domes. The peak, reaching 1,465 meters, has been a site of historical significance since Roman times, with the Temple of Mercury constructed at its summit. In the 19th century, it became a key location for scientific experiments, including Pascal's barometric pressure tests. Today, Puy de Dôme is a popular tourist destination, offering panoramic views and hiking opportunities.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceSaignon

Puy de Dôme, France

Saignon, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2024

Saignon, a picturesque village in the Vaucluse department of Provence, France, has roots dating back to Roman times. Perched on a hill, it served as a strategic lookout point and a fortified site during the medieval period. The village is known for its charming narrow streets, ancient stone houses, and the remnants of its medieval castle. Saignon's Romanesque church, Notre-Dame-de-Pitié, adds to its historical allure. Today, it attracts visitors with its scenic beauty and historical ambiance, epitomizing the charm of Provence.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag FranceGrillon

Vaucluse, France

Grillon, Vaucluse, France

Year: 2021

In the fields surrounding Grillon, a village in the Vaucluse, stands an uninhabited and abandoned house. This solitary structure, weathered by time, evokes a sense of mystery and nostalgia. Surrounded by the serene beauty of Provence, it offers a glimpse into the past amidst fields of lavender and sunflowers. The house, though silent, tells stories of a bygone era. Exploring this area reveals the timeless charm of rural France.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Gouache

Limburg

Flag LimburgBerg en Terblijt

Limburg, Netherlands

Berg en Terblijt, Limburg

Year: 2024

Berg en Terblijt is a village in the Limburg province of the Netherlands, known for its ancient history and scenic landscapes. It has been inhabited since Roman times, evidenced by archaeological finds in the area. The village is famous for its marl quarries, which have been used for centuries in building and are now a tourist attraction. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it became a popular health resort due to its natural beauty and mineral springs. Today, Berg en Terblijt is part of the municipality of Valkenburg aan de Geul and attracts visitors for its historical sites and outdoor activities.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgEpen

Limburg, Netherlands

Epen, Limburg

Year: 2024

Epen, a quaint village in Limburg, boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman era. Nestled in the scenic Geul Valley, its lush landscapes were shaped by medieval farmers. The village thrived through centuries, with its half-timbered houses reflecting a bygone era. During WWII, Epen was occupied and later liberated, leaving deep historical imprints. As the sun sets, the village’s serene beauty illuminates, casting a golden hue over its picturesque hills and meadows.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgMechelen

Limburg, Netherlands

Mechelen, Limburg

Year: 2024

The misty landscape near Mechelen in Limburg, Netherlands, has been shaped by the Geul River for centuries, creating fertile valleys and rolling hills. Roman settlers first cultivated the land, which later saw medieval monasteries and farms flourish. The 19th century brought railways, connecting the region and boosting its growth. World War II left its mark, but the area's natural beauty and historical structures endured. Today, the morning mist adds a mystical quality to the scenic fields, orchards, and ancient woodlands.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgVolmolen

Limburg, Netherlands

Volmolen, Epen, Limburg

Year: 2024

The Volmolen in Epen, Limburg, is a historic watermill dating back to the 18th century. Originally built in 1762, it was used for fulling wool, a crucial process in textile production. Over the years, it transitioned to grinding grain before ceasing operations in the mid-20th century. In 1967, it was restored and preserved as a cultural heritage site. Today, the Volmolen stands as a testament to the region's industrial past and a popular tourist attraction.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgOirsbeek

Limburg, Netherlands

Oirsbeek, Limburg

Year: 2024

In a real winter, the farmlands of Oirsbeek are blanketed in pristine snow, with frosted fields stretching to the horizon. Silhouetted barns and fences add rustic charm to the tranquil scene. As the sun sets, a warm golden light bathes the snowy landscape, casting a serene and picturesque glow.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgDoenrade

Limburg, Netherlands

Doenrade, Limburg

Year: 2024

Doenrade, a quaint village in the Netherlands, transforms into a serene winter wonderland as snow blankets its historic buildings and surrounding countryside. Local forests and fields offer peaceful, frosty landscapes perfect for quiet walks. Winter in Doenrade is a time of calm beauty and timeless charm.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgHilleshagen

Limburg, Netherlands

Hilleshagen, Limburg

Year: 2024

In Hilleshagen, the hollow roads, or "holle wegen," become especially atmospheric during winter. These sunken lanes, carved deep into the landscape, are often lined with bare, frosted trees, creating a tunnel-like effect. Snow and ice accentuate their ancient, winding paths, making them feel secluded and timeless. As you walk along these roads, the silence of winter amplifies their mysterious and tranquil charm. Hilleshagen's hollow roads in winter offer a unique and enchanting glimpse into the region's natural beauty.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Flag LimburgSelzerbeek

Limburg, Netherlands

Selzerbeek, Limburg

Year: 2024

In winter, the pollard willows along the Selzerbeek create a striking silhouette against the frosty landscape. Their gnarled, cut-back branches stand stark against the snowy fields, highlighting their resilience and age. The Selzerbeek, sometimes partially frozen, winds gently past these iconic trees, adding to the serene beauty of the scene. Mist rising from the cold water adds a mystical quality to the setting. Together, the willows and the stream form a picturesque winter tableau that captures the quiet elegance of the Dutch countryside.

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Watercolor

Animals

Animal feetSquirrel

Sciurus vulgaris

Squirrel

Year: 2024

Squirrel

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Soft pastel

Animal feetMalinois

Malinois

Malinois

Year: 2020

Malinois

Size: 18cm x 12cm

Technique: Acrylic