In nature I find my inspiration
“I thought I needed talent to paint. Elisabeth showed me I just needed curiosity and a little courage. Her classes are a joy—encouraging, structured, and full of unexpected breakthroughs.”
I’m a certified coach, trained through the Coaches Training Institute (CTI) in San Francisco, and a certified practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). These skills, combined with my passion as a multiple award-winning visual artist, form the foundation of my unique approach to teaching and creative coaching.
Having lived and worked in six different countries and fluent in four languages, I’ve gained a broad perspective on culture and creativity that deeply influences my teaching style and connection with students from all backgrounds.
For nearly two decades, I’ve shared my love of art and personal growth with students of all levels. For the past 14 years, I’ve taught at the Yellow Barn in Glen Echo, Maryland — recognized as the #1 art school in the Washington-DC area. In addition to teaching, I run my own Paint and Wine business, where I bring art and community together in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Through these varied experiences, I’ve developed a range of programs that help people unlock their creativity, connect with their intuition, and grow their confidence both on and off the canvas.
🇳🇱 I still think in Dutch sometimes—especially when I’m excited.
🎨 I taught Paint & Wine classes at Visarts, Rockville, MD and have my own business in Paint & Wine.
👩🎓 I teach at the #1 adult art school in the DC area.
🖌️ I never painted before age 54 (unless you count high school!).
🌎 I’ve lived in six countries and speak four languages.
🥾 My studio is next to 20,000 acres of state parkland—trail walks are part of my process.
☕ I believe good coffee and good art go hand in hand.
🍎 One of my favorite lessons? Painting a simple apple to learn how light works.
For most of my life, I dreamed of painting—but never really gave myself permission to begin. Aside from a few high school classes, I hadn’t painted at all. Then, at 54, something shifted. I picked up a brush… and I was hooked.
Painting gave me more than just a creative outlet. It helped me reconnect with myself. It offered joy, clarity, even healing. I didn’t start out with talent—I started out with curiosity and a deep longing to express something I couldn’t put into words.
Now, I teach because I know what it’s like to begin later in life—with doubts, excitement, and a strong inner “yes.” I want to help others experience the same spark of discovery, freedom, and confidence that painting brought me. It’s never too late. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to begin.
My oil paintings can be found in many private collections in America and Europe.
Take a peak a the Gallery page to get a feel for my style.
