The start of a new year invites us to pause and appreciate the artists who created intersting works in 2024. Among them, Dutch artist Lucy Looijen-Lavrijsen stands out for her remarkable ability to draw inspiration from history while making it deeply personal. Known affectionately as “LUCY,” she has spent over 30 years blending archaeology, geology, and art into timeless narratives that resonate with simplicity and emotional depth.
Born and raised in Son en Breugel, a quiet town in the Netherlands, Lucy’s surroundings and heritage have left an indelible mark on her work. Her paintings are not just visual statements—they are heartfelt stories that explore universal connections through the lens of personal experiences.
Three decades ago, Lucy founded her studio, “LUCY,” as a haven for her creative exploration. There, she bridges the past and present, creating works that invite quiet reflection on life’s fleeting yet enduring moments.
Art as Storytelling
Lucy’s artistic approach weaves the richness of ancient artifacts with modern introspection. Her works, such as “Lotus” and “Indonesia,” illustrate how personal meaning and historical inspiration can coexist, creating art that is as thoughtful as it is visually engaging.
The painting “Indonesia” is a prime example of Lucy’s ability to blend cultural and personal narratives. Inspired by the intricate carvings of the Prambanan temple in Java, the piece was created as a gift from Lucy’s mother-in-law to the Indian community at a nursing home. It goes beyond replicating the beauty of the temple’s bas-reliefs, serving instead as a testament to human connection, shared memories, and respect across cultures. Lucy’s brushwork captures the depth and intricacy of the carvings, while infusing the piece with a sense of warmth and familial bonds.
A poem accompanies “Indonesia,” offering a window into Lucy’s creative world and process:
I dig up my soul and paint…
The leaves unfold one by one
In shadows:
Where we were sad,
When it was hard
But also gave each other comfort.In highlights:
Where we shared beautiful things,
Had fun, laughed, and enjoyed.In colours:
Soft shades, nuances,
Where we found atmosphere,
Warmth or coolness,
And felt alive.Even in spices:
With which we gave life flavour,
Tasted and shared food,
In so many beautiful moments.Year after year,
Very ordinary,
But so special,Growing older,
Until the end,
And after.
This poem reflects Lucy’s layering technique, where shadows represent struggles, highlights symbolize joy, and soft colors evoke life’s subtle nuances. The spices, textures, and moments within the poem align perfectly with the layered narratives of her paintings.
The Quiet Resilience of the “Lotus”
“Lotus,” another significant work by Lucy, showcases her fascination with nature’s ability to endure and thrive. The lotus flower, which rises from muddy waters to bloom in purity, serves as a poignant metaphor for resilience and renewal.
Through soft tones and minimalist composition, Lucy captures the essence of the flower’s journey, allowing its symbolism to resonate deeply. “Lotus” invites viewers to reflect on their own growth and strength, offering a visual meditation on life’s challenges and triumphs.
This theme mirrors Lucy’s broader approach to art. Each painting is a process of uncovering, a means of transforming personal and collective experiences into something that speaks across cultures and times.
Creating Connections
Lucy’s studio is more than a workspace—it’s a sanctuary where stories and emotions intertwine. Her art doesn’t seek to overpower but rather to engage quietly, drawing viewers into moments of contemplation. It’s an invitation to explore connections between the ancient and the contemporary, the internal and the external, and between one’s self and the wider human experience.
Whether it’s the intricate cultural homage of “Indonesia” or the serene reflection of “Lotus,” Lucy’s works are both personal and universal. They encourage viewers to pause, reflect, and find meaning within their layers.
As we step into 2025, Lucy Looijen-Lavrijsen’s art reminds us of the enduring power of simplicity, history, and human connection. Her creations are more than paintings—they are windows into life’s complexities, inviting us to rediscover the beauty in both the ordinary and the extraordinary.
