About Nanas Pretty Paper
Our History
Nanas Pretty Paper was started in 2017, when quite by accident I discovered that coiled strips of paper added depth, texture and dimension to a watercolor painting. This technique spoke directly to my heart and I knew instantly that I could create beautiful and intriguing art work. Every single piece I create is one of a kind, as I cannot manipulate the paper to lay the same way more than once.
Our Mission
At Nanas Pretty Paper, our mission is to promote my God given talent and to showcase this form of paper art that makes my heart smile and I hope it makes your heart smile too!
Our Collection
Our collection of quilled watercolor pictures includes a wide range of subjects, some focusing on reality, and some on whimsy. We are continually offering new pieces in a variety of sizes, both framed and unframed. For custom pieces, we work closely with our clients to ensure their satisfaction.
About the Artist
My Life Story
My name is Brenda Lynn Van Beek Struiksma. I learned when I was a little girl that I could draw and I learned in my teens that I could oil paint but I did not enjoy that. I wanted to learn to watercolor but was scared to attempt it. About 10 years ago I decided to give it a try and knew instantly that I loved it. It spoke to my heart.
My Art Story
After 26 years as a USPS employee and a cancer survivor, I reached a low point in my career. Due to heavy work loads, long hours and inclement weather, I knew I no longer wanted to carry on in this field. One day in the heat, discouraged, I pulled my vehicle off the road and I said a very simple prayer, asking God to show me another way if there was one. A few months later I was putting together a Christmas event and needed several Christmas ornaments that had to be made of paper. I shopped, couldn't find anything I liked, Googled it, and found a quilled art ornament, but they were expensive so I decided to make one myself. In doing so, I happened to lay one on the table and went off to get a cup of coffee and when I returned I notice that my ornament had landed on a watercolor I had painted the day before. and it outlined the subject of the watercolor perfectly. At that moment, I saw what I could do, and I knew this was a direct answer to my prayer.
My Achievements
Awards and Achievements include Best Of Show, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place at multiple events. I have also sold 3 pieces to Pixar.
My Art Techniques
I learned many years ago, that I cannot predict what people will like or what piece will do well at a show. I learned to simply create what my heart wants me too.
So, I begin with a very elementary drawing or a very vague watercolor. Sometimes there are very few details in the painting. I then add those needed details using strips of paper glued on their sides.
Discover the Masterpieces at Nanas Pretty Paper Art Gallery
