In my oil paintings, I work in the borderland between realism and magic, with animals and nature at the center—not only as playful motifs, but as messengers of wisdom, authenticity, and presence. Qualities that also reflect something primal within us as human beings.

At the same time, we live in a world shaped by technology, social masks, and expectations. Nature operates within a different kind of network—an ancient system of signals, relationships, and interdependence, free from the artificial yet filled with boundless intelligence. Our cities rest upon this biological foundation, not only physically—like concrete structures rooted in the land—but also through the countless inventions and innovations inspired by nature’s own solutions. It is easy, and nonetheless unfortunate, to overlook the wonders that are naturally here.

For this reason, I seek to highlight the unique qualities of different species—both their physical traits and their distinctive abilities—often intertwining them in unexpected and humorous combinations. Within the playfulness, there is also a seriousness: a longing for care, protection, and closeness to the natural world.

Animals and nature become symbols of a greater “we”—a cycle in which no life is too small to matter, regardless of species. And truly, there are lives that are teeny tiny, yet are immense. Those who truly live, with eyes wide open, can discover the surrealism not only within the paintings, but in life itself.

If you are interested in reading more about my thoughts behind specific paintings, you can do this under the category Blog and My heart for the planet!

Name: Marlou Jaspers
Birth year: 1995 
Born: Breda, Netherlands
Located: Örebro, Sweden