Ans Breetveld

If you like football or automotive engineering, you haven't come to the right place. But if you love language, art, or depth, feel free to stick around.

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You can, of course, visit my website: my watercolors, drawings, and art of looking away.

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Art of looking away? What is that?

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On one side, I want to show the beauty of the world: nature, portraits, colors, and playfulness.
On the other side, the heavy, painful, and ugly. Everything we would rather not look at. And yet, make something beautiful out of it.

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Why do I choose the uncomfortable?

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Because it touches me. Because I have experience with it. Because I didn't have a nice mother and a father who didn't stand up for me.

Because I was sexually abused for five years, starting in my late teens.

Because I have studied trauma and learned to write about it.

Because I work as an expert by experience for Stichting Praat and De Hoofdzaak.

Because we all carry a burden. Because I think it is important that people talk about it, because it helps. Because it removes shame and creates connection.

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Do you want to know exactly what happened?

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Then read my autobiographical novel *Letter to My Perpetrator*.

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Do you also want to create art or write?

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Perhaps you think: I can't do that. Not for me.
Or do you think: I am just an amateur?

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Then stop holding yourself back.
Because I am certain: everyone can write. Everyone can draw. Everyone can paint.
You just need to know the tricks. I can teach them to you.

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So simple?
Yes, so simple.

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Who am I that I can say that?

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I am someone who digs deep and asks questions. I like to dig into the soul. And into meaning. Even when I want to learn something.

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And I am stubborn. For example, I don't care about diplomas or long, expensive courses. I took short, effective courses. Sometimes I get my knowledge from books, videos, and online programs.

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I also love working together. To have fun.

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For example, you can find me as a creative facilitator and watercolor teacher at the Lucasgilde in Beverwijk.

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Writing groups that I facilitate often last for years, because we get to know each other well and have fun together.

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Furthermore, I have a wonderful husband, two adorable cats, a beautiful garden, and I regularly take care of three donkeys.
And oh yes, I also love making theater, singing, and crocheting clothes.

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Fancy writing, drawing, or painting with me?

Just let me know.

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Love, Ans