My story

Many moons ago, I started working on my personal illustrated story. I recently updated it to include my work on Song of a Blackbird: I end with the first spread in my book, which ties to the beginning of my life.

My pal Jim Averbeck always says that the beginning of a story is the ending in disguise, and that may just be the best writing advice he has given me (and he has given me lots of great advice). Thank you, Jim!

Another good piece of writing advice? Steal from your own life and experiences whenever possible. It makes a story more real, I promise.

Here’s my story. Hope you enjoy it!

Open mind. Open heart.

Maria van Lieshout

PS: Tell stories. Make ART🐦‍⬛