By Malu

Category: Workshop

  • Workshop: Window Illustration | Ages 5+

    Workshop: Window Illustration | Ages 5+

    A creative and accessible workshop where you collaboratively create a unique artwork on a window.

    About the workshop
    In consultation, we’ll decide on a theme in advance so that the final result becomes a cohesive whole – while still leaving plenty of room for individual creativity.

    We start with a short introduction to the world of window illustration: I’ll show you what’s possible in terms of style, technique, and application. Then, everyone creates their own design on black paper as preparation for the real canvas – the window!

    On the window, we’ll look together at composition, collaboration, and how to scale your design from paper to glass. The illustrations are rain-resistant and can easily be removed with water.


    For whom?
    For anyone who enjoys experimenting with illustration in a playful and surprising way.
    Suitable for groups of 10 to 30 people.
    Available for primary schools, after-school programs, libraries, community centers, team outings, or other groups.

    Duration
    45–60 minutes, or longer by arrangement.

    Location
    On-site (with a suitable window and enough tables and chairs)

    Price
    Starting at €250 per group
    (Includes material costs, excludes travel expenses)

    I provide a warm atmosphere, something tasty to eat and drink, and of course plenty of space to create, explore, and share.


    At the end of the workshop, you’ll have a collaborative artwork displayed on the window (for a short or long time) – and you’ll have discovered the joy of window illustration in a fun and creative way!

    Workshop at Cool Arts and Culture – Heerhugowaard

    For the open day of Cool Arts and Culture, I was invited to organize a creative workshop. Cool is a place where music, theatre, and visual arts come together, and where people of all ages can explore their talents.

    During the workshop, the central question was: “What makes you happy?” Visitors – from children to adults – designed their own ideas and then worked together to create a large-scale artwork on the windows of the building.

    The result: a diverse, collective artwork in which everyone could recognize a piece of themselves. A successful day filled with creativity and connection.

    Meike – Cool Arts and Culture

    “For our Open Day, Malu organized a creative activity where visitors could make a window illustration on the large glass wall of our second floor, with a beautiful view over Dijk & Waard. The preparation went very smoothly: communication by phone and email was quick, clear, and pleasant. On the day itself, Malu arrived well in time and had prepared everything thoroughly. She worked independently, radiated enthusiasm, and actively engaged visitors in the activity. We received many positive responses, and the colorful window drawings were a real eye-catcher. A valuable and successful addition to our program!”

    Every year, Olympus College hosts a lively end-of-year festival filled with performances and creative activities for their students. For three consecutive years, I’ve been invited to lead window illustration workshops during this event.
    Each year, we work with a new theme to keep the results fresh and inspiring. I’s always a joy to shape students’ ideas together and to literally cast the school in a different light.  

    Underwater World

    Sky World

    Summer

    Window Illustrations at Rozet – in collaboration with Kunstbende

    Commissioned by Kunstbende, I led an inspiring workshop for creative young people eager to explore the art of window illustration. Rozet generously offered its windows as a canvas, and I had the pleasure of guiding the participants through the process of developing their own concept – from initial idea to final execution.

    It was truly special to witness how each participant managed to translate their personal story into a powerful and visual image on glass.

    Liselot – Kunstbende

    We have asked Malu, through Kunstbende Gelderland, to conduct window drawing workshops several times, and each time it has been a success. She approaches each assignment with great enthusiasm and knows how to create a pleasant, accessible atmosphere with her calmness, creativity, and positive energy, making everyone feel welcome.

    Her approach makes it fun and educational for both beginners and experienced creators to participate. Through her approachable teaching style, participants quickly feel at ease and inspired to start working on their own. In short: highly recommended!

    Malu Bekker

    I am Malu, and since 2019 I have officially been an entrepreneur, but in reality, it all started long before that. From a young age, I have been passionate about fashion (designing), painting, illustrating, and later also animating.

    In 2021, I graduated Cum Laude from the Illustrated and Animated Storytelling program at AKV St. Joost in Den Bosch. Today, I work as a freelance illustrator and animator for various (social) organizations such as the Salvation Army and the Red Cross.

    In addition to freelancing, I create paintings to give expression to everything that happens internally within myself and/or others. Images capture what words sometimes fail to express.

    With this workshop, I hope to inspire participants and show them how versatile illustration can be.

  • Workshop: Illustrating with Different Techniques and Materials | Ages 6+

    Workshop: Illustrating with Different Techniques and Materials | Ages 6+

    “Tailor-made workshops that invite young people to explore the diverse world of illustration.”

    About the workshop
    In consultation, I develop a workshop that fits a (current) theme, location, or specific target group. It can be booked as a one-off session or as part of a multi-week series.

    The workshops are a creative journey where fun and expression take center stage. Together, we build a personal collection of illustration techniques—think working with paper, chalk, collage, pencil, markers, and methods like stippling, smudging, scratching, and layering.

    We don’t stay within the lines of traditional drawing styles; instead, we encourage experimentation and imagination.


    For whom?
    Groups of approximately 10 participants.
    This workshop is available for primary schools, high-schools, after-school programs, libraries, activity centers, birthday parties, or other groups.

    Duration
    45–90 minutes

    Location
    On location (with enough tables and chairs)

    Price
    Starting at €250 per group
    (Excluding materials and travel expenses)

    I provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, something tasty to eat and drink, and of course, plenty of space to create, explore, and share.


    At the end of the workshop, kids take home a filled booklet of illustration techniques—a source of creative inspiration to continue working with on their own.

    Examples of techniques
    Paper mosaic

    Making Accordion Books

    Sparking Imagination

    Designing Your Own Coasters

    Collage Superheroes

    Art Instructor at Meervaart

    As a creative art instructor at Meervaart in Amsterdam, I had the weekly pleasure of working with a dedicated group of young artists. Each session, I challenged them with a new and inspiring assignment that encouraged them to explore and develop their creativity. The program culminated in a festive exhibition during the Meervaart Jong Festival – a special moment where their work truly came to life and was proudly presented to the public.

    Workshop: Junior Fashion College
    What would you love to wear?

    We began this workshop with that simple question. The group started by drawing a full-body self-portrait. Then the fun really began: it was time to design their own outfit! The assignment wasn’t limited to pencils and markers – we also used paper, glitter, fabric, and all kinds of craft materials to bring their fashion ideas to life.

    Malu Bekker

    I am Malu, and since 2019 I have officially been an entrepreneur, but in reality, it all started long before that. From a young age, I have been passionate about fashion (designing), painting, illustrating, and later also animating.

    In 2021, I graduated Cum Laude from the Illustrated and Animated Storytelling program at AKV St. Joost in Den Bosch. Today, I work as a freelance illustrator and animator for various (social) organizations such as the Salvation Army and the Red Cross.

    In addition to freelancing, I create paintings to give expression to everything that happens internally within myself and/or others. Images capture what words sometimes fail to express.

    With this workshop, I hope to inspire young people and show them how versatile illustration can be.