As an artist, I am inspired by the subtle dialogue between the abstract and the figurative. The biggest challenge when working on a representational painting is to detach oneself from the image without loosing it fully. I find it interesting to move between these extremes. What is relevant in the art work? Which elements are needed for the painting to come about, or conversely, what can it not be without? How much can the painting be simplified without loosing something essential? Sometimes, the expression in the eyes can be enough to convey the whole story.