MARJAN VAN HERPEN 26-12-1966 I am a fine art photographer based in Limburg. Creativity was deeply embedded in my upbringing and led me to study visual arts at the art academies in Maastricht and Tilburg, after which I became a secondary school teacher. My photographic journey began at the age of eight with my first camera. During my studies, I worked extensively in the darkroom, both at school and at home in our small “DOHO” — a dark wall cupboard where photography quite literally came to life. After graduating from the Fotovakschool in Boxtel, I continued to develop my skills in digital photography and founded my own photography business. Over time, I developed my own signature within fine art photography: imagery that goes beyond mere documentation and tells stories. I work from ideas and themes, creating series in which atmosphere, symbolism, and stillness play a central role, such as my still lifes and the child and pet series. My work is strongly influenced by the 17th-century Old Masters, particularly Rembrandt and Vermeer, and is characterized by a keen attention to light and shadow, texture, and painterly compositions. Creating is essential to me; it is my way of breathing. As a sensitive and socially engaged person, I easily connect with my models, resulting in authentic and timeless images. In addition to my work as a photographer, I have been teaching visual arts and cultural arts (CKV) for 26 years. In my studio, I also create silver jewelry using silver clay and offer workshops, where creativity, craftsmanship, and personal expression come together. https://www.marjanvanherpen.eu https://www.atelier122.nl https://www.facebook.com/MarjanvanHerpenFotografie https://www.instagram.com/marjanvanherpen_fotografie/