Simone Balhuizen, born 18th August 1973, The Netherlands.
Simone applies traditional techniques in her way of painting. That can be 'alla prima' whereby a painting is completed in almost one single session. Or a layered approach whereby a painting is completed in severall steps consisting of different layers of thinly and thickly applied paint. She chooses an impressionistic style inspired by the old Dutch, Italian and Spanish masters.
"I try to capture the essence of the subject I am painting. It is not about a photographic representation of what I see. In that case a camera will do the job. I want to show the essence of the subject in brush strokes, paint layers, colours, values and edges. A creative idea is not enough; learning the craftmanship of traditional painting is an ongoing process and essential in becoming a good painter."
Education:
1991 - 1998 Master in modern history, University of Nijmegen
1994 - 1996 Photo academy Amsterdam
2001 - 2004 Masters in Business Administration University of Nottingham, UK
Painting Education
2013 - present Painting school Marian Merk
2016 Masterclass Teresa Oaxaca
2018 Masterclass Nicholas Beer
2024 Masterclass Hans Versfelt