Monique van Doorn from the Netherlands, a former kindergarten teacher by training, is currently visiting South Africa, captivating South Africans with her inspirational story as well as her art, predominantly inspired by nature and travel.
Monique was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. After successful cancer treatment, she decided that something had to change in her life. She and her husband sold their earthly belongings and became ‘modern nomads’ when their kids left home to study abroad. They wanted to travel and explore the world, meet new people, have many exciting new adventures and create new memories.
“I travel with as little luggage as possible, but I always have my hiking boots, camera, and a sketchbook and pencils with me. My passion is making drawings and paintings, inspired by travels, stories, and nature. Wherever I settle down, I create art,” says Monique.
Monique’s art is displayed all over the world from Amsterdam, Barcelona to the Caribbean, Florida and also South Africa. Her artwork is currently on display at South Hill Winery in Elgin and White Water Farm in Stanford.
Why do you love South Africa, and particularly Hermanus, so much?
“I visited Hermanus for the first time in 2013. This beautiful little town, in the stunning Overberg and the deep blue ocean, captured our hearts. It is everything that we need – fresh air, friendly people, good food, fantastic wines, and white sandy beaches.”
Monique’s motto is to live life to its fullest and have fun. She believes that animals should be protected from extinction and support this by giving a percentage of her art sales to The Black Mambas – the world’s first all women anti-poaching unit. Their goal is to upskill local communities and protect wildlife.
For more information visit www.littlesecretbymonique.com
