Oil on canvas – 5 x 7 inch – Unique work

Amsterdam has an uncanny feeling for me…

As I wander through the narrow streets among locals fed up with the tourists who invade their town, making their bike rides dangerous—and I’d call them suicidal—I can’t take my eyes off of the colorful, crumbling architecture. This old-fashioned, postcard-perfect charm of the canals, the narrow streets, the windows lit up at night, without curtains because they have nothing to hide, draws me in endlessly. I invent a story for each house I pass by. Monumental paintings in one, blazing chandeliers in another, kitchens in a state of daily disarray, relaxing in front of the TV with a drink, in yet another—these are all potential stories.

As I leave Amsterdam’s chic center, my nostrils are tickled by the sour, and to me, nauseating smell of weed, which is sold openly in the Netherlands. I confess that, almost on an empty stomach, I could easily throw up. I’ve always wondered how it could possibly be so popular. That said, I’ve never tried it, and that will remain the case for the rest of my life. A little further on, is the Red Light District, which I love to visit both day and night. The atmosphere is completely different. Lots of people passing by, especially tourists at the end of the day. The shimmering colors, mainly red, but also yellow from the streetlights, brighten everything and give it a truly unique look. There’s no risk of walking alone in this district; it’s so crowded, and the draw of the shop windows takes it all. The atmosphere is peculiar and the complete opposite of the “chic” district, yet so close. A few canals, a few boats further on, and everything changes.

However, the houses everywhere are unique and magnificent. My attraction to Amsterdam is real and eternal. I haven’t made the shift to live there, even though the desire was definitely there. Maybe one day… or maybe not! But with each visit, I’m like a child on Christmas morning. My eyes are sparkling, my curiosity is piqued, and my passion for discovery is my daily bread. I know some streets by heart, and yet, each time, it’s as if I’m walking them for the first time. I’ve taken hundreds of photos, and they’re all unique!

Amsterdam has an uncanny feeling for me…