Oil on cardboard – 9,5 x 7 inch – Unique work

The two buildings were built at the same time, or almost. They had their ups and downs. They are enlivened by shutters in a devastatingly optimistic color. They cannot go unnoticed. They have been there for a long time and plan to stay in this same place even longer!

I didn’t spot them on my first day in Amsterdam. To be honest. I passed a bit quickly through the streets, desperately looking for Berenstraat. The first time was epic. Thank you to all the locals who very kindly helped me four times to find the gallery.

My third morning, from the central station, I take this endless street to locate, initially, one of the oldest bars in the city and THE chocolate cookie shop. And there, at the very beginning, on the left, my eyes are drawn to the color. This stunning orange is fascinating. But in Amsterdam, anything is possible. I freeze for a moment! I do not have a choice. I take my cell phone out of my backpack and start taking some “you never know” shots. At that time I did not imagine making a painting of it and even less writing this story.

It’s the acrid smell of the coffee shop next to me that pushes me to continue on my way. I mustn’t be late, I’m opening the gallery today! But these two big houses haunt me. I imagine anecdotes behind the windows. People’s lives can sometimes be exciting. How many are they ? Is it a family? How old ? Which job ? What dreams do the occupants inhabit?

I leave it to you to complete this anecdote, you who are giving this painting the most beautiful of gifts, a new home. I wish you a lot of joy in contemplating it with a distracted look. Quickly in the morning before going to work, going for a walk, living… More gently in the evening when going to bed. Sometimes not at all for a day, two why not a whole week? But it is not resentful. It will always be there, faithful, loyal, ready to bring you all the comfort you need.

I put all my energy, all my life into these bright colors…