Alchemy of Life<\/em> series. It is the only painting in which the portrait of a woman remains visible. With all the others, I painted over the faces again \u2013 not out of doubt, but because the personal often gets in the way of the abstract. But here it was different. <\/p>\nThe inspiration for this painting came to me during an online workshop. The organizer was visible on screen. She was taking notes about a participant’s concern. <\/p>\n
I often paint portraits, even under paintings, but I frequently paint over them. In my view, the figurative often distracts from the message. But sometimes a portrait remains. And in this case, it’s not about the portrait \u2013 it’s about the thoughts freeing themselves from her head. <\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_line_height=”1.2em” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_3_line_height=”1.2em” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
I observed this woman as she noted down thoughts. Her body was calm, but you could sense: worlds were growing inside her head. This movement \u2013 the quiet, creative interior \u2013 touched me. It reminded me of what I so often seek myself: the moment when creation emerges without forcing it. <\/p>\n
So I began to sketch. A letter emerged \u2013 to myself and to all those people whose spirit wants to be free and whom they themselves imprison. <\/p>\n
The title is an invitation: Let your spirit breathe again.<\/h3>\n
We hold on so often.
To ideas.
To sketches.
To expectations.
And sometimes to images that are long outdated.<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Let-your-spirit-breath-again-skizze.jpg” title_text=”Let-your-spirit-breathe-again-sketch” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Let-your-spirit-breath-again-3.jpg” title_text=”Let-your-spirit-breathe-again-3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Let-your-spirit-breath-again-1.jpg” title_text=”Let-your-spirit-breathe-again-1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Let-your-spirit-breath-again-2.jpg” title_text=”Let-your-spirit-breathe-again-2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_line_height=”1.2em” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_3_line_height=”1.2em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
I catch myself doing this in my own process \u2013 when I try to preserve a fragment, even though the whole wants to move forward. This work represents the letting go that is necessary for a work to become whole. <\/p>\n
The colors are deliberately delicate and expansive \u2013 yet the painting has a dense presence. Oil lies over an acrylic underpainting. The painting process was not linear. Again and again I returned, looked, felt, changed. It wasn’t about creating a perfect painting, but an authentic one. <\/p>\n
The contrast between hope and insight runs quietly through the painting. It is calm, but not passive. It breathes. It doesn’t ask if you’re ready \u2013 it invites you. <\/p>\n
This painting is meant to remind you:
Enjoy creating.
You are a creator.
Your spirit needs space.
Creativity is not a luxury \u2013 it is a reconnection.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Interieur-Let-your-spirit-breath-again.jpg” title_text=”Interior-Let-your-spirit-breathe-again” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Let Your Spirit Breathe Again<\/strong><\/p>\n80 x 100 cm
Oil on canvas
2023<\/p>\n
\u20ac1,800.00 (plus 7% VAT)<\/p>\n
Sold<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”30px” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” global_module=”52039″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
Das Bild ist schon <\/span>verkauft, <\/span><\/strong>schm\u00fcckt ein anderes Zuhause und st\u00e4rkt einen Menschen.<\/span><\/p>\nDu m\u00f6chtest ein \u00e4hnliches Bild?<\/h3>\n
Beauftrage dein individuelles Kunstwerk in diesem Stil und zu diesem Thema.
Werde Teil des Sch\u00f6pfungsprozesses.
Erfahre hier mehr \u00fcber Auftragskunst<\/strong>.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_module=”51889″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Kunst ist mehr als ein dekoratives Bild an der Wand.<\/h5>\n
Kunst ist ein Luxus, den du dir g\u00f6nnen darfst.
Kunst ist individuell und das Gegenteil von Massenprodukten und schnelllebiger Mode.
Ein Kunstwerk begleitet dich (und teilweise Generationen) und wird zum Bestandteil deines Lebens und aller Geschichten in ihm.<\/p>\n
Meine Bilder sind Ressourcen, in denen man sich selbst erkennen kann.
Sie sind meine pers\u00f6nliche Auseinandersetzung mit den Herausforderungen und Sch\u00f6nheiten des Lebens.<\/p>\n
Ich lade dich ein, in den Tiefen der Schichten und der Vielfalt der Farben deine eigene Ressource zu finden \u2013 zur St\u00e4rkung, Fokussierung oder Ruhe in deinem eigenen Leben. Und deinem Zuhause mit meiner Kunst einen ganz pers\u00f6nlichen Touch zu geben und deine eigene Geschichte in ihr zu erz\u00e4hlen.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”3px||7px|||” global_module=”51888″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||2px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider divider_weight=”4px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”30px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Are you interested in this painting?<\/h5>\n<\/h3>\nHow the purchase works<\/strong><\/h3>\nYour artwork in three steps<\/h5>\n
1. Non-binding inquiry<\/strong>
Simply click “Submit inquiry” to let me know you’re interested \u2013 with no obligation. This way I’ll know which work has touched you, and we can start a conversation. <\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”11px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
2. Personal consultation (with hanging service upon request)<\/strong>
Together we’ll discuss your questions about size, impact, spatial effect \u2013 and if you wish, I’ll create a free digital preview of the painting in your space (hanging service). All you need is a photo of your wall. <\/p>\n3. Secure transaction<\/strong>
After your confirmation, the work is professionally packed and shipped free of charge (within Germany). In a sturdy wooden crate, well protected and insured. You’ll receive tracking information \u2013 and can look forward to your new artwork with peace of mind. <\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/schwester-sicherer-ort-02.jpg” title_text=”sister-safe-place-02″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(141,198,196,0.21)” background_image=”https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Painter-artist-31.png” background_size=”custom” background_image_width=”46%” background_position=”top_right” background_blend=”lighten” custom_padding=”18px|||||” global_module=”51887″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider divider_weight=”4px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_3_font_size_phone=”30px” header_3_font_size_last_edited=”off|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n
How does the artwork get to me?<\/strong>
You can pick up your chosen work personally at my studio in Karlsruhe. Alternatively, I’ll ship it to you professionally and securely packed (free of charge within Germany for purchases over \u20ac1,000). For larger or international shipments, I’m happy to provide exact prices upon request.<\/p>\nWhat happens if the artwork arrives damaged?<\/strong>
I pack each work carefully in a sturdy wooden crate. Should something arrive damaged, I’ll immediately offer a replacement or refund \u2013 straightforward and personal. <\/p>\nCan I return the work if I don’t like it?<\/strong>
Yes. You can return the work within 14 days if it doesn’t meet your expectations. I understand that art is very personal. However, I ask that you cover the shipping and return costs. <\/p>\nHow long does shipping take?<\/strong>
Within Germany, delivery takes approximately 5\u20138 business days. You’ll receive a tracking number so you can follow your artwork until it arrives. <\/p>\nHave more questions? Feel free to contact me. <\/p>\n
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Let Your Spirit Breathe Again 2023 \u2013 Series “Alchemy of Life” (to the series)80 x 100 x 1.5 cmOil on canvasThis work is an exceptional moment in the Alchemy of Life series. It is the only painting in which the portrait of a woman remains visible. With all the others, I painted over the faces […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":53521,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"project_category":[79],"project_tag":[],"class_list":["post-53576","project","type-project","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","project_category-alchemy-of-life"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project\/53576","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/project"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=53576"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project\/53576\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":53579,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project\/53576\/revisions\/53579"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/53521"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=53576"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"project_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project_category?post=53576"},{"taxonomy":"project_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/verena-mayer-kolbinger.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/project_tag?post=53576"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}