As an artist, I often get compliments about my art, people say there’s something about my work that consistently captivates them. They often describe it as elegant and stylish. But I think there’s another layer to it; a playful edge that embodies camp!

This campy sensibility has been with me since childhood when I delighted in dressing up with petticoats, shiny shoes, and quirky hair accessories. Even then, I was drawn to the slightly eccentric, a style that was bold but never crossed the line into the bizarre.

Dress Up and Play

Growing up, I always felt the need to express this side of myself, but the everyday norms, especially in a society that often values subtlety over flair, didn’t always allow for it. In my daily life, I tend to dress in a more understated way, aligning with the “doe maar gewoon, dan doe je al gek genoeg” (just act normal, that’s crazy enough) mentality so common in the Netherlands. But through my art and photoshoots, I found the perfect outlet for this part of me. I began to match my outfits to my paintings, creating a cohesive experience that blurs the line between artist and artwork. This is where my love for camp truly comes to life!

Camp, as defined by Susan Sontag and embraced in the fashion world, is all about extravagance and glamour, often with a playful, ironic twist. It’s the love of the exaggerated, the “too much,” and the art of transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. My art and the persona I adopt during its presentation reflect this campy aesthetic, offering a vibrant escape from the every day and inviting viewers into a world where bold colors, oversized accessories, and theatricality reign supreme.

Glamorous, Campy Inspirations

Shows like “Emily in Paris,” “Palm Royale,” and “Sex and the City” have been significant influences for me, showcasing high fashion styles that are both glamorous and campy. These shows inspire me to push the boundaries of traditional fashion and art, blending them into a unique expression that is both visually stunning and deeply personal.

So, curious how can you bring a bit of camp into your own life? Do you dare to be slightly campy?

It’s all about embracing the fun and the flamboyant. Start small with a bold accessory or a brightly colored outfit that makes you feel just a little more daring. And if you’re ready to take it further, consider adding a piece of my art to your home and art collection. My paintings are not just art; they are a reflection of a campy, vibrant world that you can make a part of your own.

A Celebration of the extraordinary in the everyday

Camp isn’t just a style—it’s a way of seeing the world, a celebration of the extraordinary in the everyday. Whether through fashion, art, or your personal style, embracing camp is about finding joy in the extravagant and the unexpected. Let it inspire you to break free from the mundane and add a splash of color and whimsy to your life.

Love and Colorful Greetings,

Wendy