From reading to painting – each artwork is inspired by the books I read and the worlds within them.

Abouth me

My name is Patricia Verlinde — born in Eindhoven, now living in Terneuzen with my husband and children. My creative journey didn’t start on canvas, but on paper. For years, I was active in the world of books: I wrote two young adult fantasy novels and even ran my own publishing company focused on the fantasy genre.

In 2021, I was diagnosed with VSS (Visual Snow Syndrome), a neurological condition that makes it difficult for me to spend extended periods in front of a screen. This forced me to give up both writing and design work — two forms of creative expression that had been central to my life.

Slowly, I began to realize how much I missed creating. Without a creative outlet, I felt increasingly disconnected from myself.

That’s when I rediscovered an old love: drawing. It didn’t take long before that evolved into painting — and something inside me clicked. I felt alive again. Over the past two years, I’ve taken countless art courses and have begun to truly find my own style.

Unsurprisingly, the themes of fantasy and storytelling still shine through in my work.

The Story Behind My Paintings

I like to think of my paintings as little windows into other worlds. My love for books — especially fantasy — still plays a huge role in my art. Each piece tells its own quiet story, filled with atmosphere, emotion, and a touch of mystery.

Through painting, I’ve found a new way to tell stories — not with paragraphs, but with brushstrokes. I aim to evoke a sense of mystery, serenity, and wonder. My hope is that my work offers viewers a moment of stillness, a breath of calm in a chaotic world, and perhaps a spark of imagination.

My Techniques

I primarily work with acrylic paint on canvas. I have a deep love for gold accents — gold leaf, gold ink, and any material that lets me add shimmering, luminous details. For me, gold represents light, magic, and the sacred beauty of small moments.

Over the last two years, I’ve explored a wide range of techniques through various courses, allowing me to experiment and evolve. My style blends dreamy, fantastical elements with rich textures and soft tones.

I don’t just want my art to be seen — I want it to be felt. Like stepping into a story where you can pause, reflect, and feel just a little bit more connected to yourself.