Just a little something about me, Helma Swinkels:
BiBi J is my artist name. My grandchildren call me Bibi, and the “J” comes from what was left of my middle name when I became a Canadian in 2012.

I was born in The Netherlands and spent my working career in Germany before following the love of my life to Port Alberni on Vancouver Island in 2006. As an immigrant, I began my life in Canada by volunteering with several charitable organizations, most notably at our local hospice, Ty Watson House. Eventually, I founded a community service co-op to operate a business called Pot Luck Ceramics and later BiBi J’s, with the goal of generating funds to support quality of life services in the Alberni Valley.

After retiring from volunteering in 2022, I knew it was time to pick up the paintbrush. Creativity has always been a part of me, and now it was time to let it flow through art. I spent two years taking art workshops on Vancouver Island, working hard to find my own style. I was fortunate to grow up in the woods, and nature has been my companion for most of my life. It relaxes me, amazes me, touches me deeply, and inspires me to express those feelings on canvas.

I found a wonderful Danish painter, Marie-Louise, whose online courses pointed me in the right direction. I love painting land- and seascapes in an atmospheric and abstract way—layering colour on colour to create a feeling, rather than an exact image. Painting has become a part of me, and I am grateful for this beautiful gift in my life.

Some of my paintings have been turned into wearable art and gifts through a designer company based in Montreal. All products are 100% made in Canada and created to order:
www.legaleriste.com/bibi.j

Contact:
Facebook: Helma Swinkels
Email: helmaswinkels@hotmail.com
Website: www.legaleriste.com/bibi.j