Not too long ago, I experienced a moment where words fell short.
In difficult or beautiful moments, a simple touch can say more than words.
And sometimes… there are no words at all.
Year: 2025
Category: Illustration
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When there are no words
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Presentation | Illustrations
For Professor Dr. G.J. van der Wilt, I had the opportunity to create illustrations for his presentation “Evaluating Medical Technology: How Do You Actually Do That?”
In the presentation, he advocates for bringing more empathy into healthcare and it was my task to translate that feeling into visuals.
Client: professor dr. G.J. van der Wilt
Year: 2025
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Carrousel | Feeling stuck in your own body
Recently, I discovered that I have a form of rheumatism. The first weeks were full of uncertainty, but a few weeks later, I began to feel more acceptance. This process brings a lot of emotions, questions, and lessons with it. In a carousel design, I try to take people along in my experiences.
Part I
Part II
Deel III
Deel IIII
I created this piece especially for Cure Arthritis to shed light on everything that lies beneath a disease.
Opdrachtgever: Personal work
Jaar: 2025
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Soelaas | The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international movement and part of the universal Christian church. They believe in opportunities — in second chances, third chances, and every chance after that.
Their work includes professional care, community outreach, secondhand clothing services, and emergency aid for those who need it most.Magazine Soelaas No. 13 – “Behavioral Interventions”
For this edition, I was asked to create visuals related to the behavioral training programs I-Respect and CoVa-Plus.
Jaar: 2026
Soelaas Magazine No. 12 – ‘Times of need’
The Salvation Army wants to highlight how important mutual resilience is in times of need. Throughout the Netherlands, there are Salvation Army “living rooms” that offer support, warmth, food, and drinks to anyone who needs it.
Client: The Salvation Army
Year: 2025
Soelaas Magazine No. 11 – ‘Human Trafficking’
Human trafficking is a serious issue that often takes place under the radar. Victims are frequently unable or too afraid to speak out, while perpetrators operate in well-organized networks. The Salvation Army is committed to making a difference — supporting survivors and confronting this injustice.
The illustration for this issue was meant to reflect the gravity of the problem and visually convey the real emotions behind the experiences of victims.
Client: The Salvation Army
Year: 2025
Client’s feedback on the collaboration
Daniël – The Salvation Army
Malu is a versatile illustrator with a distinct and appealing style.
The illustrations we need vary greatly from project to project in terms of mood and the emotion we want to convey. Malu always manages to strike the right chord. The collaboration is smooth, and we can rely on her to deliver as agreed. -
Merch | Meervaart Jong Festival
Illustrations can serve many purposes — from posters and product lines to clothing designs, coloring pages, and more.
Meervaart Jong Festival
Each year, Meervaart Jong provides a stage for young artists, dancers, DJs, and actors through the Meervaart Jong Festival. Throughout the year, these young talents receive professional guidance in their craft. At the end of the season, their performances and creations are showcased during the festival.In 2024, I was asked to design the poster and merchandise for the event. I also had the opportunity to guide one of the atelier groups in creating their own exhibition. A meaningful experience in supporting young creatives on their journey of growth and expression.
Client: De Meervaart
Year: 2024
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Poster symbols | Personal work
Symbols can be a powerful addition to websites, social media, print materials, and more. In my work, I add flair and expression to symbols, taking them beyond the often clean and minimalistic designs you usually see.
Encouraging Poster
As part of my graduation project, alongside a documentary animation (shown under Animations), I designed an uplifting poster. This poster invites you to create your own bucket list, to dream big, and to chase those dreams. It’s a two-sided design: one half focuses on planning and setting goals, the other on celebrating what you’ve already achieved. Because sometimes we forget to pause and recognize how far we’ve already come.
Symbols Featured on the Interactive Website
You can view the full project and download your own A3 posters via the link below:
https://www.bymalu.nl/dedoodofdegladiolen
Interactive website created in collaboration with StudioParkers.Year: 2021
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Travel portraits | Personal work
In 2024–2025, I went on a seven-month solo journey through Europe. From helping out on a renovation project in France, to staying at a hostel in Gran Canaria, to spending a month freelancing on Madeira.
Along the way, I met many remarkable people. To capture these special encounters, I created portraits—each one linked to a life lesson they consciously or unconsciously shared with me.
This journey has encouraged me to travel more often and continue capturing those who and what fascinate me.
Year: 2025
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Various illustrations zine | Postmodem
As part of my education, I was challenged, together with a self-assembled team, to create and sell our own zine within six months. The result is a zine where we delve into an intriguing question: What if the internet shuts down?
My contribution consists of a series of six interactive illustration spreads. In these spreads, I questioned ten diverse people, you, and myself, about the role of the internet in our daily lives. The conversations that followed were translated into symbolic illustrations. Each spread contains multiple layers, which the reader can discover via a QR code that leads to additional content and reflections.
This project offers a unique experience where art and technology merge, and the question of the internet’s influence on our lives is explored visually and interactively.
All Zines are Sold Out
To read more about the project:Year: 2021
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Concept Illustrations | App about grief
My illustrations are more than just visual art – they are a way to make complex emotions and abstract processes visible. Whether it’s personal, emotional themes like grief or concepts still in development, I help bring ideas to life in a way that speaks to and touches people.
Grief Process Illustrations
For an app designed to provide support during the grief process, I developed two conceptual illustrations. My aim was to visually represent both the vulnerability and emptiness often felt in grief, as well as the growth and healing that is eventually possible.The images are meant to touch on the complexity of grief with a universal character. Grief knows no boundaries of age, background, or gender, and I wanted to create a representation that everyone could relate to. The grief process is personal, but it is also something we all go through.
Year: 2021
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OverHoop | The Salvation Army
For several editions of the Strijdkreet magazine – a publication by The Salvation Army about faith and purpose – I had the opportunity to create an illustrative spread.
Hope means being able to look towards the future with confidence and faith. It gives you the courage to keep going even when things get tough.
Magazine Overhoop Winter 2025
A Bible story in a modern twist — about a wealthy man and his celebration that takes an unexpected turn.
Opdrachtgever: Het Leger des Heils
Jaar: 2025
Strijdkreet Magazine – OverHoop
I was commissioned to translate a Bible story into a modern-day context. A story about letting go, adventure, setbacks, and the joy of reunion. The result is a colorful and uplifting illustration.
Client: The Salvation Army
Year: 2025
Hoop Magazine – Strijdkreet Christmas Edition
For this edition, the Christmas story took center stage. I illustrated the journey of Joseph and Mary in a playful and contemporary way, using colors that align with the visual identity of the Salvation Army.
A modern interpretation of a timeless story.
Client: The Salvation Army
Year: 2024
Client on the collaboration:
Coen – Salvation Army
We’ve now worked with Malu on several projects at the Salvation Army. In addition to a pleasant and professional collaboration, she delivers beautiful and high-quality work. Her illustrations are excellent, she contributes ideas, and is actively involved in the creative process. We’re always very happy and satisfied with the final result. -
Atmospheric Ilustrations | De Meervaart
Sometimes, a concept exists only as an idea or in words – and that’s where illustration comes in. Atmospheric visuals are ideal for bringing developing plans to life or reinforcing existing ideas. Think of them as a visual summary of your company, vision, or concept. Illustrations make the abstract visible and tangible.
The New Meervaart
For De Meervaart, I created an atmospheric illustration of their future location – a vibrant place that flows with the seasons. Since the building is still in development, an illustration is a powerful way to convey the project’s ambiance and intent. A great example of how imagery can stay one step ahead of reality.
Client: De Meervaart
Year: 2021
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Various Illustrations | The Red Cross
Commissioned by the Red Cross, I created illustrations for their social media channels.
The Red Cross supports people in need – including here in the Netherlands. Their work includes emergency shelter, food assistance, and first aid support. They also raise awareness around social issues, such as food insecurity.
Article: “Food Insecurity in the Netherlands”
Full article:
https://www.rodekruis.nl/nieuwsbericht/voedselnood-in-nederland-cherrel-eet-soms-twee-dagen-niet
Client: The Red Cross
Year: 2023
Article: “No Money for Groceries”
Full article:
Client: The Red Cross
Year: 2023
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Travel illustrations Azores | Personal work
In 2021, I spent five weeks traveling through the Azores – a place that completely stole my heart. The overwhelming nature, the calm, the ocean always nearby, and the mild climate… it truly felt like coming home.
During this trip, I didn’t just observe as a visitor. I also carried with me a quiet question: Could I live here someday?
As the last illustration shows, the island also felt limiting at times. Being surrounded by water is beautiful, but it also brings a certain sense of isolation. For now, moving to the Azores is off the table — but who knows, that might change again someday…
Year: 2022
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Window illustration | Paak | Lebowski
A hand-drawn window illustration instantly makes your shop or venue stand out. Whether you’re just opening your doors, want to highlight a special promotion, or transform your storefront for the holidays – an illustration grabs attention, invites people in, and tells your story.
Original, cheerful, and fully tailored to your shop and style.I also offer workshops where you can learn how to draw on windows yourself – perfect for teams, schools, or creative groups (more about this under Workshops).
The Big Draw
Commissioned by The Big Draw Netherlands, I’ve created illustrative storefronts for several shops. Each year revolves around a different theme, with artists being paired with local businesses.Pizzabar Rijlust – Tilburg
I was invited by Illustrada x Playgrounds to create a drawing around the theme “Let’s Draw Together.” My location was Pizzabar Rijslust. Combining the theme with the location, I came up with the idea to illustrate the process of making a pizza, with a pencil as tool.
opdrachtgever: Illustrada x Playgrounds
Year: 2025
Bar PAAK Nijmegen
Inspired by the theme ‘Drawing with Senses’, I came up with the idea to link each of the senses to an experience at PAAK.
PAAK is the ultimate 70s-style bar where a love and passion for music comes together with top-notch finger food, craft beers, and high-end cocktails.
The sketch
Client: The Big Draw
Year: 2023
Lebowski Nijmegen
The theme from The Big Draw was ‘Back to Color’, which meant you were allowed to use one or more colors in your design.
Bar Lebowski is known for its wine, and of course I incorporated that into my design.
Client: The Big Draw
Year: 2022
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Iive portraits | Various events
Whether it’s a wedding, festival, trade fair, store opening, or corporate event – a live portrait adds a smile and creates lasting memories. In just 15 minutes, I draw your guests from a photo, capturing them from head to toe.
The result? A one-of-a-kind illustration that adds that extra touch to a special day. Even better: you give your guests something tangible and personal to take home – a little artwork to cherish.
How does it work?
I work on location at a small table with pencil and paper (A5 size). Don’t worry, you don’t have to sit still for minutes at a time – I take a photo beforehand, so you can continue enjoying the party while I draw 😉
At the end of the event, the portraits will be ready for you to take home – a unique keepsake, right in your hands.Practical:
• Price from €650 for 3 hours (approximately 25 people)
• Excluding travel costs and potential printing fees
• Want more people to be illustrated than the time allows? No problem – I’ll happily finish them afterward based on photos (additional cost by arrangement).Curious about the possibilities for your event? Feel free to send me a message!
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Welcome portraits
Welcome Portraits are versatile designs that can be used for a variety of purposes. They’re the perfect way to introduce yourself or your business, but can also visually represent a city, location, or specific place. Whether it’s for a flyer, website image, (wall)sticker, or business sign – the possibilities are endless.
Think of new buildings, shopping centers, hospitals, clinics, and more! A “Welcome Portrait” creates a warm and unique reception, instantly giving your visitors a personal and inviting experience.
Discover Arnhem
I designed a concept illustration that represents and introduces the city of Arnhem. This visual can be used in a variety of ways – from flyers and murals (such as at the train station) to signage at the city gates and beyond. It’s a creative and inviting way to highlight the city’s identity through illustration.
Year: 2019
Welcome Flyer | BuurtKadoos
BuurtKadoos is a welcome gift box for recently relocated residents, filled with thoughtful gifts and offers from local businesses.After receiving one of these surprise boxes myself, I reached out to explore whether I could contribute creatively. This led to a wonderful collaboration where I was commissioned to design the welcome flyer.
In my design, I aimed to bring the vouchers to life and encourage recipients to discover the local initiatives. I often work within the brand’s color palette to ensure the identity of the organization is clearly reflected in the design.
The Welcome Flyer reached between 500,000 and 750,000 households!
Who knows – maybe you’ve come across it yourself?
Client: Buurtkadoos
Year: 2020
Client about the collaboration
Sonny – Buurtkadoos
Malu approached us for a collaboration to enhance our product with a beautiful illustration that would capture the essence of Buurtkadoos. We gave the task of creating an image in which we would ‘capture’ each city, with a local character that depicted an average neighborhood as a cohesive whole. We wanted an illustration that would touch people, make them smile, and one that everyone could relate to. We are extremely happy with the work delivered; it is full of expression and dynamism, and has captured exactly what we were looking for. Our product has become more complete thanks to this unique illustration by Malu.
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Label portraits
Through my portraits, I give stories a face. Whether it’s about emotions, atmospheres, or specific themes, a portrait can capture it all. These artworks are perfect for various applications—from labels and flyers to product packaging and more.
Portraits can be more than just visual pieces—they’re powerful narratives that grab attention and amplify the character of a product. Curious what I could create for your product? Get in touch to explore the possibilities!
Oersoep
Each year, Oersoep invites several illustrators to design a label for their unique beer specials, and I was thrilled to be one of them!
For this project, I began by brainstorming around a fruity summer beer. The result is a funky and vibrant label that reflects the character of the brew.
Client: Oersoep
Year: 2019
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Collage travel paintings
I transform photos and memories into custom artworks – fully tailored to your wishes. One of my special focuses is travel paintings: from world trips to solo adventures, family holidays to that one destination that captured your heart. Together, we choose the photos, format, and overall atmosphere. The result is a one-of-a-kind artwork with deep personal meaning – a lasting, tangible memory.
Five Continents
For the painting Five Continents, I worked closely with Irma and Hans to uncover the story that connects them: their shared passion for traveling the world. Using their carefully preserved travel photos, I created a collage reflecting the five continents they explored together.
By weaving these images into a cohesive composition, the final piece became more than a painting – it became a personal narrative of their adventures and lifelong love for travel.
Client: Irma & Hans
Year: 2019
Client about the collaboration
Irma
We gave Malu a big assignment: to create a painting from around 200 photos of the countries we’ve traveled to. She did an amazing job. Every day, we look at our travel painting filled with cherished memories.
Malu truly listens to what you want, keeps you informed throughout the process, and allows space for your own input. Even after all these years, we’re still not tired of this unique piece of art. -
Magazine Hope – Christmas Edition of Strijdkreet
For this edition, the Christmas story was the central theme. I portrayed the journey of Joseph and Mary in a playful and contemporary way, using colors that align with The Salvation Army’s branding. A modern retelling of a timeless story.You can view the full magazine above.
Client: The Salvation Army
Year: 2024
Client on the collaboration:
Coen – Salvation Army
We’ve now worked with Malu on several projects at the Salvation Army. In addition to a pleasant and professional collaboration, she delivers beautiful and high-quality work. Her illustrations are excellent, she contributes ideas, and is actively involved in the creative process. We’re always very happy and satisfied with the final result. -
Arrow design | Jacobiberg
Pop centre Jacobiberg organizes various music nights, and I was given the opportunity to design the signs that guide visitors to the different stages.
Client: Jacobiberg
Year: 2025
