Merel is an independent Belgian painter who expresses herself in bold colours and textures, laced with symbols, numbers and words. Her paintings radiate warmth and speak of joyful encounters, good fortune and happiness, reading more like music than two-dimensional works. Merel’s language isn’t tied to a particular country or culture but crosses borders as it speaks of life and love – feelings people can relate to universally.

During her latest travels to China (2012), Merel was drawn to the expressionist character of colourful symbols she encountered in flea markets: old newspapers, Buddhist mantras, silken bits and bobs. She brought it all home and collaged it in the works now featured in ‘The Yellow River has Nine Corners’ – an enchanting exhibition during the transition from the Year of the Dragon to the Year of the Snake.

Image: © Merel, AO Vertical