{"title":"early collection","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"river-within-origineel-werk-door-merel-alphenaa","title":"River Within – original work by Merel Alphenaa","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eRiver Within\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMixed media \u0026amp; oil paint on paper\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eArtwork dimensions: 42.5 × 57 cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaper size incl. border: 49.5 × 64.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOriginal mixed media artwork on paper by Merel Alphenaar. A powerful, symbolic work about inner connection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eRiver Within\u003c\/i\u003e is the first study for my future series \u003ci\u003eNew Unconditional Love\u003c\/i\u003e, a collection that explores the mystery and vulnerability of pregnancy. This series originated from a personal wish: the hope for a third child, which has long been with us, but also the grief after three miscarriages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis work is a whisper of that longing. The soft lines, the use of rollers, the transparency of the layers: everything breathes inner movement.\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA belly. A river. A silence that still speaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrints on paper and canvas available later. Do you have any special requests? Please let me know and contact me.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"193\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"200\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also internationally. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible in terms of shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50433264910678,"sku":"","price":348.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1718_7b7c63b4-42c0-4c0c-992e-fa35854079f7.jpg?v=1747291022"},{"product_id":"strong-in-the-silence","title":"Strong in the Silence","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTitle:\u003c\/b\u003e \u003ci\u003eStrong in the Silence\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eMedium:\u003c\/b\u003e Mixed media \u0026amp; oil on paper\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 44.5x59cm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions including white border:\u003c\/b\u003e 49.5x64.5\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eStrong in the Silence\u003c\/i\u003e, man and animal meet in a silent intensity. The man, bent and introverted, shares the pictorial plane with a jaguar moving with alert grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe work breathes focus and surrender. The colours are warm and layered; pink and orange merge into a background full of traces, rhythms, and movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a moment of struggle, but of presence. An inner strength that does not need to shout but is palpable in the silence between two souls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eAn ode to instinct, intuition, and the power of not-knowing.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"193\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"200\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, including internationally. If you live outside the EU and would like to order a painting, please contact me first. Together, we can discuss shipping options and costs so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50435071443286,"sku":"","price":348.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1402.jpg?v=1747308661"},{"product_id":"the-quiet-guard","title":"The Quiet Guard","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"626\" data-end=\"758\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"626\" data-end=\"645\"\u003eThe Quiet Guard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"626\" data-end=\"758\" class=\"\"\u003eMixed media \u0026amp; oil paint on paper\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eArtwork dimensions: 42.5 × 57 cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaper size including border: 49.5 × 64.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"626\" data-end=\"758\" class=\"\"\u003eThe quiet guard began with intuitive mark-making, an exercise in letting go, experimenting, and listening to what wanted to emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"909\" class=\"\"\u003eFrom those first layers, in acrylic paint and movement, a figure appeared:\u003cbr data-start=\"837\" data-end=\"840\"\u003ea guardian, strong and silent, embedded in flowers and violet tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"916\" data-end=\"1069\" class=\"\"\u003eThe oil paint finishing gave the work depth, texture and soul.\u003cbr data-start=\"983\" data-end=\"986\"\u003eThe bull looks at you without judgment – determined, gentle, and fully present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1305\" class=\"\"\u003eThis work is part of my \u003cem data-start=\"1107\" data-end=\"1120\"\u003eEarly Works\u003c\/em\u003e: studies I made during my training, in which I seek my voice as an artist.\u003cbr data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1223\"\u003eYet this piece feels like a milestone – a meeting between strength and feeling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1305\" class=\"\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also abroad. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible regarding shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly with you.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50435734110550,"sku":"","price":348.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1612.jpg?v=1747313754"},{"product_id":"she-carries-the-wild","title":"She Carries the Wild","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003ename: She carries the wild\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eMixed media \u0026amp; oil paint on paper\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eArtwork size: 42.5 × 57 cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaper size incl. border: 49.5 × 64.5 cm\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eShe Carries the Wild\u003c\/i\u003e is a mixed media work on paper, in which various techniques come together to form an emotionally charged image. The background, built up with spray paint, forms an energetic and almost uncontrollable underlayer. Acrylic is then applied over this, and finally finished in oil paint, with details such as the zebra, flowers, and patterns forming a unified whole. The patterns from the background reappear in the animal and the surroundings as a symbol of connection between human, animal, and nature.\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA subtle hint of gold catches the light, as a reminder of inner strength and radiance that is not always directly visible, but always present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"193\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"200\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also abroad. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible regarding shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50435806167382,"sku":"","price":348.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1720.jpg?v=1747312823"},{"product_id":"landing-in-color","title":"Landing in Color","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTitle:\u003c\/b\u003e \u003ci\u003eLanding in Color\u003c\/i\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eMedium:\u003c\/b\u003e Oil on canvas\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 60x80cm\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLanding in Color\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is about change, growth, and the moment when something slowly falls into place. In the center of the work, a butterfly lands on an open flower. A small moment of peace, amidst all the movement.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe painting is entirely built up in oil paint, with great attention to color, layers, and detail. The combination of soft transitions and powerful colors creates an image that feels both calm and vibrant.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis work was created during a period when I increasingly began to find my own way of working. Experimentation, intuition, and symbolism truly came together for the first time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe butterfly represents change and development. Not as a grand statement, but as something that slowly emerges. Layer by layer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCurrently, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLanding in Color\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e can be seen at @unit4art in Gouda. Fine art prints of this work are also available there.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe original work is delivered unframed and includes a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e🌍 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShipping information outside the EU\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDo you live outside the EU and are you interested in this work? Please feel free to contact me first. Together we will look at the shipping options and associated costs, so that the work arrives safely with you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50435842310486,"sku":"","price":1046.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_0991.jpg?v=1747315300"},{"product_id":"constructing-flow","title":"Constructing Flow","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConstruction flow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed media on canvas\u003cbr\u003e58 x 78 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConstructing Flow is a work that originated as part of the Milan Art Mastery program.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt started with intuitive mark-making and liquid inks. Gradually, lines, geometries, and rhythmic patterns emerged as if structure wanted to present itself within the chaos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor me, this work is about the dance between control and letting go.\u003cbr\u003eBetween what is planned and what is allowed to emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colours flow, collide, and build. Some areas are transparent and light, while others are layered and powerful. The end result feels like a visual landscape of energy, movement, and order – like a blueprint of an inner process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"193\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-end=\"252\" data-start=\"200\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003e\u003cem data-end=\"591\" data-start=\"254\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also abroad. If you live outside the EU and would like to order a painting, please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible in terms of shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly with you.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50440566014294,"sku":"","price":739.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1849.jpg?v=1747395831"},{"product_id":"endangered-bloom","title":"Endangered Bloom","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEndangered Bloom\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed media \u0026amp; oil paint on paper\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e                                                                                        \u003c\/span\u003edimensions work: 44.5 x 59 paper size incl.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e                                                                              \u003c\/span\u003ewhite border 49.50 x 64.5 cm\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eEndangered Bloom\u003c\/i\u003e tells a story of contrast and connection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe work brings together the sturdy, endangered rhinoceros with bright flowers – a symbolism of strength versus vulnerability, of life continually emerging, even in difficult circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this artwork, Merel uses collage, ink, acrylic, and oil paint to create layers that are literally and figuratively palpable. The flowers seem to float above the animal's skin, as if softness and survival are not in opposition but rather work together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis painting is an invitation to reflection and admiration. Perfect for those seeking meaningful art that speaks to the heart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, including internationally. If you live outside the EU and would like to order a painting, please contact me first. Together we can explore the possibilities for shipping and costs, so you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50442998514006,"sku":"","price":348.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1822.jpg?v=1747417719"},{"product_id":"playful-courage","title":"Playful Courage","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003ename: Playful Courage \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003eink, mark making, acrylic on Canvas                                                                         Dimensions: 29 x 29 \u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003ePlayful Courage\u003c\/i\u003e is an invitation to let go of control and dare to play.\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this work, Merel uses ink, acrylic, and spontaneous mark-making, in an intuitive flow that breathes freedom. The colors are powerful and feminine: fuchsia, turquoise, beige, and white flow together into a vibrant composition full of rhythm and movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis painting reminds you that creativity doesn't always have to be grand or heavy. Sometimes, beauty lies precisely in the unexpected, the lighthearted, the unpredictable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small but powerful work that fills your space with color, joy, and courage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also internationally. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible regarding shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly with you.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50443102454102,"sku":"","price":137.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_1853.jpg?v=1747418899"},{"product_id":"guard-of-the-quiet-realms","title":"Guard of the Quiet Realms","description":"\u003cp\u003ename: Guard of the Quiet Realms                                                                                       \u003cspan\u003eacrylic, imitation gold leaf and oil paint on canvas                                                             dimensions: 39.5 x 50 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eGuard of the Quiet Realms\u003c\/i\u003e invites you into a world between sight and feeling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis painting began with expressive layers of acrylic and shimmering gold leaf, then gained depth and softness through oil paint. The white wolf appears not as a predator, but as a silent witness—a calm guardian of all that is vulnerable, wise, and wild.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurrounded by blooming flowers and cosmic light, it symbolizes feminine strength, intuitive protection, and inner peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis work carries a gentle, yet profound energy. A reminder that true strength is not always loud. Sometimes, strength is the ability to remain still… and to watch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied without a frame and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also internationally. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at the possibilities regarding shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50443231035734,"sku":"","price":430.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_0901.jpg?v=1747420186"},{"product_id":"where-beauty-unfolds","title":"where beauty unfolds","description":"\u003cp\u003e Title: where beauty unfolds\u003cbr\u003e Medium: mixed media on canvas finished with oil paint\u003cbr\u003e Dimensions: 50X50 cm\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e Where Beauty Unfolds mixed media with oil paint on canvas.\u003cbr data-end=\"729\" data-start=\"726\"\u003e This painting revolves around the quiet strength that every woman possesses. Not something that cries out for attention, but something that simply is—present, reliable, and powerful. The work is constructed layer upon layer of charcoal, modeling paste, and oil paint. The extra-thick sides allow the image to flow, bringing it even more to life. An ode to both softness and strength, for anyone who recognizes that true strength often grows in silence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, even internationally. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. We'll discuss shipping options and costs together, so you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and with care.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51213508641110,"sku":null,"price":545.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_2846_0f034cab-007d-4fe0-ac57-5d76f74b1048.jpg?v=1756902715"},{"product_id":"in-her-stillness-beauty-grows","title":"In Her Stillness, Beauty Grows","description":"\u003cp data-end=\"181\" data-start=\"113\"\u003eTitle: In her stillness, beauty grows\u003cbr\u003eMedium: oil paint\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 40X80 cm\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"181\" data-start=\"113\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"179\" data-start=\"113\"\u003eIn Her Stillness, Beauty Grows – Oil on canvas (40×80 cm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"487\" data-start=\"183\"\u003eIn this painting, female power is central – not loud or conspicuous, but quietly and naturally present.\u003cbr data-end=\"304\" data-start=\"301\"\u003eThe work began with a charcoal sketch. Transparent washes were then applied, followed by thicker layers of oil paint, carefully built up to create depth and atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"726\" data-start=\"489\"\u003eThe woman on the canvas is surrounded by a swallow, flowers, a bee, and honeycomb – symbols of growth, nurturing, and inner strength. The sides of the canvas are painted, allowing the artwork to flow seamlessly without a frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"893\" data-start=\"728\"\u003eAn ode to strength that doesn't need to shout. To beauty that isn't imposed but simply present. And a reminder that this strength resides in everyone. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, including internationally. If you live outside the EU and would like to order a painting, please contact me first. Together, we can explore shipping options and costs, so you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51217997267286,"sku":null,"price":698.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG_2842.jpg?v=1756921947"},{"product_id":"the-memory-of-flowers","title":"The Memory of Flowers","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTitle: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003eThe Memory of Flowers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003emedium: ink, acrylic and oil paint on canvas\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003edimensions: 30x40 cm \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1589\"\u003eThe Memory of Flowers\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"445\" data-end=\"623\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"445\" data-end=\"468\"\u003eThe Memory of Flowers\u003c\/em\u003e is about the way memories persist.\u003cbr data-start=\"518\" data-end=\"521\"\u003eNot as complete stories, but as colors, shapes, and impressions that become fixed in your mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"625\" data-end=\"897\"\u003eThe deep blue flowers represent those moments that remain clear.\u003cbr data-start=\"692\" data-end=\"695\"\u003eMemories that come back instantly, even after a long time.\u003cbr data-start=\"758\" data-end=\"761\"\u003eThe warm, weathered background, on the other hand, shows what has softened. Everything that fades with time, but never completely disappears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"899\" data-end=\"1168\"\u003eThe work began playfully, with loose layers of ink. Without a fixed plan, more like searching than directing. From that underlayer, the flowers emerged in acrylic. In the final stage, they were finished with oil paint, to add depth and vibrancy and to \"settle\" the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1170\" data-end=\"1401\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1170\" data-end=\"1193\"\u003eThe Memory of Flowers\u003c\/em\u003e plays with the contrast between what remains clearly present and what slowly dissolves. A silent depiction of how memories behave. Sometimes sharp, sometimes vague, but always a part of who you are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1403\" data-end=\"1534\"\u003eThe sides of the canvas are painted along, so the work also looks good without a frame and can be hung directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1403\" data-end=\"1534\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, also abroad. Do you live outside the EU and would you like to order a painting? Please contact me first. Together we will look at what is possible regarding shipping and costs, so that you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly with you.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52041456910678,"sku":null,"price":262.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/7f3b6800-d1b9-11f0-a8bd-eb98b33b5a36.jpg?v=1765184227"},{"product_id":"between-what-was-and-what-will-be-1","title":"Between What Was and What Will Be","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTitle: \u003cspan\u003eBetween What Was and What Will Be\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003emedium: mixed media finished with oil paint.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003edimensions: 80 x 65 cm \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBetween What Was and What Will Be\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e emerged during a period when I was experimenting a lot with material, composition, and visual language. In this work, various elements I was exploring at the time come together: figuration, architecture, flowers, and abstract layers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor me, the painting is about an intermediate phase. Not really an end, but also not quite the beginning of something new. About searching, combining, and slowly feeling clearer about which direction to take.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe different components don't all need to be explained immediately. It's precisely the coexistence of softness, structure, and loose forms that makes this work interesting to me.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLooking back now, this painting feels like a transitional work. A moment just before my work began to become more personal and narrative in the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUnconditional Love\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e series.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original work is supplied unframed and comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"193\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e🌍 \u003cstrong data-start=\"200\" data-end=\"252\"\u003eShipping information for orders outside the EU\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"591\"\u003eI ship my art with great care, including internationally. If you live outside the EU and would like to order a painting, please contact me first. Together we can explore the shipping options and costs, so you know exactly what to expect and your artwork arrives safely and lovingly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merel Alphenaar","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53520537420118,"sku":null,"price":1134.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0916\/6048\/4950\/files\/IMG-9323.jpg?v=1778220373"}],"url":"https:\/\/merelalphenaar.com\/en\/collections\/early-collectie.oembed?page=2","provider":"Merel Alphenaar","version":"1.0","type":"link"}