What does a full day in the life of an artist really look like? If you imagine long hours of painting, dreamy studio moments, or sipping coffee while sketching—you're not wrong. But being a professional artist also includes the less glamorous, behind-the-scenes hustle. In my latest art vlog, I take you along on a full, emotional, and productive day: wrapping up one exhibition in the morning and setting up another in the afternoon—all within the colorful streets of Amsterdam. From carefully removing paintings at Stayokay Amsterdam Oost to installing art prints at OBA Mercatorplein Library, this day is a reminder of what it means to live and breathe art. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a collector, or someone who’s just curious about the art world’s inner workings, come along for this real and rewarding journey.
Morning: Wrapping Up My Exhibition at Stayokay Amsterdam Oost
The day began with a bittersweet moment: the closing of my art exhibition at Stayokay Amsterdam Oost. For weeks, my expressive portraits of women from around the world had been brightening the walls of this creative hostel in the east of Amsterdam. This show celebrated diversity, bold femininity, and inner power—and I was honored by the responses and conversations it sparked.
But as with all things, exhibitions have their time. So I packed my tools, rolled up my sleeves, and headed to the venue for the uninstallation process.
Step 1: Carefully Removing Each Piece
With patience and care, I removed each original painting from the wall. My hands worked slowly—almost like a goodbye ritual. I wrapped each piece in protective layers of bubble wrap, and placed them gently in their transport bags.
Alongside each painting, I also removed the printed art labels, which listed the titles, sizes, media, and prices. These small cards might seem like minor details, but they play a big part in sharing the stories behind the work.
Step 2: Reflecting on the Journey
As I packed the last painting, I paused. It’s always emotional to end a show. Exhibiting in public spaces isn’t just about visibility—it’s about vulnerability. You're putting your heart, culture, and voice on display. I felt grateful for this chapter, and ready to begin the next.
With the work packed, I booked an Uber XL to transport everything back to my studio. The driver helped me load the paintings, and soon we were on the way.
Midday: Returning Home and Recharging
Back at home, I unloaded the paintings into my studio, stacked them safely, and took a moment to breathe. Days like these are exciting, but they’re also physically and mentally demanding.
I made myself a warm lunch—something simple and grounding—and enjoyed a short break. I like to use these quiet moments to reflect, recharge, and get into the mindset for the next task ahead.
Afternoon: Setting Up at OBA Library Mercatorplein
After lunch, it was time to shift gears and head to my next exhibition setup—this time at OBA Library Mercatorplein in Amsterdam West. This beautiful public library offers artists like me the chance to share our work with the community in a welcoming, accessible space.
This exhibition focuses on art prints, which are more affordable and ideal for reaching a wider audience. My prints still carry the same vibrant energy, symbolism, and bold storytelling—just in a format that invites even more people to connect.
Step 1: Arriving at the Venue
I packed the prints and label cards and took another Uber to Mercatorplein. Once at the library, I met with the coordinator, who showed me the designated wall space. The light was perfect—soft yet strong, ideal for highlighting the colors and emotions in the portraits.
Step 2: Measuring, Hanging, and Curating
Just like with originals, I began by measuring the wall, planning the sequence of prints, and deciding how to create a visual flow that tells a story.
Each print was carefully mounted one by one. I stood back after each piece to adjust spacing and make sure the presentation felt cohesive.
Step 3: Adding the Final Touches
With the prints installed, I added the art labels—small but important touches that give viewers deeper insight into each piece. They featured the title, media, and a brief description.
This library exhibition is more than a display—it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and celebrate women from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Ending the Day with Gratitude
By the time the last label was pinned, the sun had dipped lower in the sky. I stood in the library, looking at the walls transformed by art, and felt a deep sense of gratitude.
To have the opportunity to exhibit in two unique and vibrant places in the same city—on the same day—is a blessing I don’t take lightly. It’s a reflection of years of dedication, storytelling, and trust in my creative path.
Each exhibition, whether it's in a hostel or a library, is a bridge between my soul and the world. Through portraits, symbols, and color, I invite people to feel, to connect, and to see women in their full power and complexity.
Want to See More Exhibitions?
This is just one day in my ongoing journey as an artist. I’m constantly exploring new spaces, sharing new collections, and telling new stories.
Click here to explore my other exhibitions
You’ll find:
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Past and current exhibitions
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Behind-the-scenes vlogs
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Fine art originals and limited-edition prints for sale
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Opportunities to visit my studio or commission your own portrait
Thank you for following along this day in my life. Art is my passion, my voice, and my way of honoring women across the world—and I’m so glad you’re here for the ride.
