Hello, and welcome to my world of creativity. My name is Erna Reiken, and I’m a mixed media artist originally from the Netherlands, born in 1972. I graduated from the AKI Art Academy in Enschede in 2011, where I found my passion for exploring the interplay between materials, techniques and ideas.

What drives me?

As an artist, I’m driven by curiosity and the thrill of discovery. My process is rooted in experimentation, often beginning with a single question: What if? I work intuitively, allowing materials and ideas to guide me, trusting the process to reveal something unexpected. Whether I’m drawing inspiration from the natural world or reflecting on themes of identity and authenticity, my goal is to create work that resonates—both for myself and for those who encounter it.

My work often explores contrasts: control versus chaos, the planned versus the unpredictable, and the tension between what we choose to reveal and what we hide. For me, this mirrors the balance we all navigate in life—between shaping our path and embracing the unexpected beauty of what unfolds along the way.

Our creative hub

These days, I live and work in the beautiful countryside of France, where I share a creative space with my partner. Together, we’ve created a vibrant hub for artistic expression—a place where ideas can take shape and grow. During the summer, we open our doors to host creative retreats, offering a space for anyone who wants to reconnect with their own creativity. You can learn more about our retreats at www.ernaenmarco.com.

Explore your creativity online with me

Can’t make it to France for a creative retreat? You can still embark on your artistic journey with me online! Through Patreon, I offer a space for inspiration, experimentation, and growth in your creative process. For just €3.50 per month, you’ll gain access to exclusive posts, behind-the-scenes insights, and personal reflections I only share there. Looking for deeper guidance? For less than €50 per month, you’ll receive personalized assignments, feedback, and live video sessions where I help you develop your unique artistic voice. There are four differently priced levels to choose from, so I’m sure there’s one that’s perfect for you. Read more about the possibilities here or view my page on Patreon.

Through my art, I hope to inspire others to reconnect with their sense of play and wonder, to embrace imperfection, and to listen to the quiet, intuitive voice that leads us toward what truly matters.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and my work. I hope you’ll find something here that sparks your imagination or touches your heart. Don’t hesitate to contact me with any comment or question.