For the past 20+ years I’ve been working as an artist, writer and illustrator. I made it, in all sorts of ways, until I thought I couldn’t and didn’t want to anymore.
I massively burned out.
On my Substack I write very honestly about my experiences, insights and tools to create a mindful and healthy life as a creative being. It ranges from personal stories to advice for mental well-being to practical tips on how to run a freelance business.
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Who are you?
My name is Marloes (pronounced ‘Mahr-loose’) De Vries. I grew up in the North East of the Netherlands, in a working class family. Books and art were never mentioned in my family, yet I have been determined to become a painter since I was four years old.
I moved to Rotterdam 11 years ago, a big city where I had more chances of making it as a creative professional. I did make it, like I mentioned above.
I call England my second home: I’m there as much as I can, because it’s the place I feel most at home. North Yorkshire is my favourite.
I recharge my battery by long walks in nature, I love collecting books and reading them (in that order), sharpening pencils, watching British crime dramas, and I’m always in awe of any pink sky.
What do you do?
I draw, paint, illustrate and write, mainly. I’ve been working as a creative professional full-time for over 16 years, but I started working for clients over 25 years ago.
I went to art school, became a graphic designer (although I really wanted to be a painter or illustrator), and took a leap in 2010: I left my job to become an illustrator. I’ve illustrated picture books, non-fiction books (for adults and kids), wrote and drew hundreds of comic pages, wrote a non-fiction book and so much more.
I won awards and from the outside, it looked all well but I overworked myself because I never felt I was doing enough and I didn’t honour my boundaries. Eventually, I burned out and got very ill. I started this Substack to share my experiences and how I’m finding my way back to my creative self.
→ Read more about me
→ Find me on Instagram: @marloesdevee (illustrations and books) and @marloes.studio (paintings and art)
→ My monthly (normal) newsletter for inspiration, tips and what I make
