Technique: Mixed media (stained glass, collage, acrylic)

Size: ca. 79 x 65 cm inc. frame

Model for Jenneken was Mienke. Her ideas about Jenneken painted a picture of her in my head. I imagined Jenneken as a storyteller. As a farmer, she had little free time and she couldn’t write. During cold evenings the family would gather around the fire and Jenneken would tell thrilling stories, that gripped everyone who listened. With the little that she had, she created a warm and welcoming household. Friends enjoyed a visit to the farm. Unfortunately disaster struck and the farm caught fire, not uncommon in those days. She was hit by a collapsing beam. Her father didn’t survive and Jenneken became paralised. I have no evidence for a fire, but her fathers death and the word ‘paralita’ behind Jenneken’s name in the register were my inspiration. Jenneken tried, but could not accept her situation. She became frustrated and desperate. Her dreams were over.