What is the best thing that I love about my work?
What I love most about my work is that I can make my path to freedom visible on my canvases. Each painting carries my thoughts, emotions, and experiences— shaped by my escape from the former GDR and the experience of a life constrained by restrictive systems. My art expresses a self-determined life, a freedom without boundaries—like in nature or the Camargue horses, which embody wildness and independence. But the idea of freedom is not limited to my horse paintings. In my expressive portraits, I also explore freedom, particularly the strength and independence of women. This longing for freedom runs like a thread through all of my work. What brings me the most joy is sharing my art in exhibitions and seeing how it moves people. It touches me when my paintings inspire others or guide them on their own path.
My work opens a dialogue about freedom and shows that it is possible to break free from systemic and societal constraints to live a life of one’s own making.
What is my idea of happiness?
Happiness, for me, is a deep connection to nature, the freedom to express my artistic visions, and the ability to not only bring joy to people through my art but also to make them think. My works aim to spark discourse on crucial topics such as climate change and wildlife conservation, encouraging viewers to reflect and engage with these issues. The social aspect is essential to my happiness. Close friendships with fellow artists, exchanging ideas with like-minded people, and connecting with an audience that values and draws inspiration from my art greatly enrich my life. Love is also a central element: my husband, who supports me in every way, is an indispensable part of my happiness. For me, happiness is a harmony of nature, freedom, creativity, human connection, love, and the desire to make an impact through my art.
What is my greatest fear?
My greatest fear is losing the ability to see or hold a brush, the inability for hand, eye, and mind to work together in creating art. As a painter, this would mean losing my voice, my freedom, and the very essence of who I am. Equally, I fear living under an authoritarian, war-driven system, where personal freedom and creative expression are stifled. Having experienced the constraints of such a system in the past, this fear is deeply rooted in my soul. These two fears are deeply interconnected, and I cannot truly say which one dominates. If I were to choose, perhaps the first—losing the ability to paint—would be my greatest fear, as it represents the ultimate loss of freedom and identity.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?
My most deplorable trait is my lack of self-confidence. Even when I finish my works, I am never truly satisfied with them.
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?
The living persons I most admire in my profession are Gerhard Richter and Marlene Dumas. Gerhard Richter fascinates me with his painterly approach, especially in his blurred landscapes and figurative works that reinterpret photographic realism with a unique softness and depth. Marlene Dumas, on the other hand, inspires me deeply with her expressive portrayals of women, exploring their emotions, strength, and vulnerability in a way that feels both raw and universal. Both artists have profoundly influenced the art world with their ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through their distinctive visual languages.
What is my greatest extravagance?
My greatest extravagance is my love for fashion. As a child, I dreamed of studying fashion design, but in the former GDR, I was not allowed to pursue it. This was not only because I was a girl, but also because my parents were academics, not workers or farmers, who were prioritized for university admission. My grandmother was a master tailor, and by the age of five, I was already
sketching my first designs and sewing them myself. Fashion became a way for me to express my creativity and individuality, even when other paths were closed to me. Today, my love for fashion remains as strong as ever. It connects me to my early dreams and to the resilience I developed through those challenges. For me, fashion is not just a luxury, but a tribute to my roots and my passion for creation.
On what occasion would I lie?
Sometimes I say that a painting is finished, even though deep down I know I could still work on it—simply to be able to let go.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?
What I dislike the most in my work is when I have to rework canvases, for example, when oxidation colors lose their intensity over time. I then have to try to match the original color exactly, which is an extremely detailed and tedious process. It’s almost like the work of an art conservator, but without the joy of creating something new. These repair-like tasks take away from the creative flow
and feel more like maintenance than artistry.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?
I was happiest in my work during two significant moments. The first was in 2021, during my exhibition at the Hyatt Regency in Mainz, where I showcased eight large-scale paintings, particularly from my ‘Camargue Horses’ series. One unforgettable moment was when a little girl stood in front of one of my paintings, wanting to play with the horse and take it home. Her mother could barely convince her to leave, as she too was deeply fascinated by the artwork.
The second was receiving the audience award at the annual exhibition of the Lahn Artists at the Old Town Hall in Limburg—not just once, but twice, in 2023 and among 50 exhibiting artists, visitors chose my work, expressing their enthusiasm for my depictions of horses and my expressive portrayals of women. These moments made me feel deeply connected to my audience and reminded me why I love creating art.
If I could, what would I change about myself?
If I could change something about myself, it would be my tendency to be overly self-critical. I often struggle to feel satisfied with my work, even when others see its beauty and value. I would love to embrace my creations with more confidence and allow myself to celebrate my achievements fully.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
My greatest achievement in work is creating art that deeply touches people. One of my proudest moments was winning the audience award at the annual Lahn Artists exhibition in the Old Town Hall in Limburg, not just once, but twice, in 2023 and 2024. Another special moment was my exhibition in 2021 at the Hyatt Regency in Mainz, where my ‘Camargue Horses’ series captivated viewers of all ages—including a little girl who thought the horse in my painting was real and wanted to take it home.
What moves me the most is that many young women have told me they would love to become like me. Knowing that I can inspire not only through my art but also through my life’s journey fills me with deep pride. These moments remind me that my art has the power to move hearts, inspire others, and perhaps even show them a path forward—something I consider my greatest achievement.
Where would I most like to live?
I would most like to live in a place where I can feel deeply connected to nature and creativity. The Camargue, with its wild horses and expansive landscapes, holds a special place in my heart, as it perfectly embodies the freedom and inspiration that I seek in my art. Living in such a place would give me the peace and space to create while staying connected to the beauty and untamed spirit
that fuel my work. I am also deeply drawn to Italian islands, such as Sicily or Sardinia, and other coastal regions. These places, with their rich history, vibrant colors, and connection to the sea, offer endless inspiration and a sense of freedom that resonates deeply with me.
What is my most treasured possession?
My most treasured possession is not something material, but the harmony of body, mind, and soul that allows me to create unique artistic masterpieces. The interplay of eye, hand, and mind—the ability to see, imagine, and bring my vision to life on canvas—is something deeply precious to me. This connection is a gift, and I cherish it above all else, because it defines who I am as an artist. To be able to translate thoughts and emotions into something tangible, to give shape to freedom, beauty, or raw emotion, is what makes this possession irreplaceable. It’s not just a skill—it’s a part of my essence, something I carry with me always and that allows me to bring my art into the world.
My most marked characteristic is my ability to express love through my paintings. This love—for nature, for trees, plants, and animals—materializes in my works, making it visible and tangible for others. My paintings are more than just artworks; they are a manifestation of my deep connection to life. Creating these paintings is my way of living, my way of sharing this love with others. I believe that this love also touches people when they view my work. It seems to leap off the canvas and create a connection that goes beyond the painting—a feeling they can carry with them.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
My most inspirational location in my city is the Neroberg in Wiesbaden. From up there, a fascinating view opens up over the entire city of Wiesbaden and the surrounding vineyards. This incredible expanse and openness, revealed through this view, convey a sense of freedom and invite one to dream. The historic buildings of the former spa town from the imperial era exude a unique elegance and history that deeply inspire me. Equally impressive is the nature, with its old trees and the harmonious atmosphere that makes this place so special. The Neroberg uniquely combines the beauty of nature with the architecture and history of Wiesbaden. Here, I find peace, freedom, and inspiration to develop new creative ideas.
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?
My favorite place to eat and drink in my city is the Jagdschloss Platte, located on the outskirts of Wiesbaden, high up at 500 meters in the Taunus mountains. Surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious dishes. The restaurant is close to the historic Jagdschloss Platte, originally built for royal hunts. This impressive building can also be visited, adding a unique historical touch to the experience. The combination of natural surroundings and the chance to explore a piece of history makes this place truly special. The breathtaking view over Wiesbaden fascinates me every time. Here, you can relax, enjoy the tranquility, and fully connect with nature. For me, the Jagdschloss Platte is the perfect place to create unforgettable moments.
What books influenced my life and how?
As a child, the books that influenced me most were stories of adventure and freedom. Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain and Call of the Wild by Jack London sparked my fascination for exploration and the untamed spirit of nature. Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll opened my imagination to fantastical worlds, while the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm filled my childhood with timeless magic and lessons. Later, The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde taught me about the complexities of beauty, morality, and art. Alongside these, art books—such as those about Michelangelo, the Egyptian pyramids, and the Renaissance— profoundly shaped my artistic vision and love for history and creativity. These books, spanning fantasy, adventure, and art, have influenced both my life and my work, inspiring me to explore freedom, beauty, and expression in everything I create.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
On my last day, I would listen to music that brings back the wonder and magic of life, and one piece that immediately comes to mind is Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev. This music fascinates me to this day, as the individual instruments bring the animals to life so vividly. The wolf, with its dark and menacing presence portrayed by the horn, sends shivers down my spine just thinking about it.
Through this music, I experience a form of synesthesia: sounds turn into images, and I can see the animals clearly in my mind. The duck, represented by the bassoon, feels clumsy and dreamy, and these traits are perfectly captured in the music. Prokofiev masterfully brings the animals’ characteristics to life through sound alone, making them appear vividly before my inner eye. This unique combination of music, imagination, and emotion continues to inspire me. These special melodies are exactly what I would want to hear on my last day.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
I have read hundreds of stories and books about adventure and heroes—there are hardly any I don’t know. Heroes with connections to real historical events fascinate me the most, as I have been passionate about art history and historical contexts since childhood. D’Artagnan from The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas and Robin Hood are two outstanding examples. D’Artagnan, based on a real historical figure, impresses me with his courage, loyalty, and determination. Robin Hood, on the other hand, symbolizes resistance against injustice and the defense of the oppressed. Both heroes combine history with fantasy and embody values like courage, freedom, and justice.
Their stories inspire me because they show that these values are timeless and universal. For me, they represent the perfect balance between historical context and creative storytelling.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
- Frida Kahlo: For her strength and individuality, turning personal pain
into art that inspires millions. - Joy Adamson: For her groundbreaking work with African wildlife and
her dedication to conservation. - Jane Goodall: For revolutionizing our understanding of chimpanzees
and leading global conservation efforts. - Cleopatra: For her intelligence and political skill in protecting Egypt as
its last pharaoh. - Queen Elizabeth I: For her strong leadership and the cultural flourishing
of the Elizabethan Age.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?
- “Girl with a Pearl Earring” (2003): This film beautifully captures the world
of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer and the creation of his iconic painting.
It is an inspiring exploration of art, creativity, and the bond between artist
and muse. - “Amélie” (2001): A surreal and poetic French film about a young woman
in Paris who sets out to improve the lives of others while discovering love
and the magic of everyday life. - “Into the Wild” (2007): The true story of Christopher McCandless, a
young man who seeks freedom and self-discovery in the Alaskan wilderness. A powerful reflection on independence, nature, and the human spirit.
What role play stories in my life and work?
Stories are a central part of my life and work. I have been inspired by thousands of fairy tales, narratives, and dramas, and their essence is reflected in my art. However, I don’t tell stories with words but with colors and textures. The theme of preservation is at the heart of my work, especially in my paintings of horses, which symbolize freedom and a connection to nature. This freedom is also part of my personal story – as a teenager, I fled from the former East Germany, shaping my unwavering will for self-determination. My art preserves these stories and invites viewers to rediscover them.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?
The words “You are the storyteller of your own life” resonate deeply with me, as every one of my paintings is biographically influenced. Each piece tells a part of my life story, which has been shaped by external circumstances. In the past, it was the regime of the former East Germany that impacted my art, and today it is global challenges like climate change and wildlife conservation. Protecting animals and endangered species is a central theme in my work. These elements, combined with my personal experiences, are reflected in my paintings. My art becomes a visual narrative, preserving and sharing the urgency of wildlife conservation, the beauty of nature, and my perspective on freedom and transformation.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
My greatest “partner in crime” is nature itself, which has been a constant companion since my earliest childhood. Horses and dogs, in particular, played an essential role as I grew up. Even as a five-year-old, I would spend hours alone in nature, carefully observing, drawing, and painting it, almost living within it. My parents often had to call for me for hours before I would return home.
This profound connection has shaped me: I know every heartbeat of nature, especially the trees. They, along with the animals that surrounded me, are not just subjects in my art but also my greatest inspiration and the essence of my creative work. Without this close relationship with nature, my art would not be what it is today.
Which people or companies would I like to work with? (
- Jane Goodall Institute – To collaborate on art projects focused on wildlife
conservation. - David Attenborough – A partnership for documentaries or exhibitions that
combine art and nature conservation. - Pablo Salgado – A photographer and conservation ambassador often
working on projects blending art and photography. - Olafur Eliasson – An artist who also focuses on nature and environmental
themes. A joint exhibition could make a powerful statement. - National Geographic – To feature or present my work in the context of nature
and environmental issues. - World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – For joint campaigns or projects using art to
support endangered species conservation. - Camargue Region (France) – Collaborating with organizations dedicated to
preserving the Camargue horses, perhaps through an exhibition in the region. - UNESCO – For a partnership within their cultural and conservation programs.
- Art Basel – Participation in an international art fair to gain global exposure.
- The Nature Conservancy – Leveraging their network to use my art for
educational and awareness campaigns focused on conservation.
What project am I looking forward to work on?
I am incredibly excited about two significant exhibitions in 2025, both closely connected to my induction into the Association of Visual Artists in November 2024. In February and March 2025, I will exhibit for the first time alongside the new members of the association in Wiesbaden – a fantastic opportunity to showcase my work to a broader audience and deepen my connections within the local art community. Another highlight will be the exhibition at Wiesbaden’s City Hall in July 2025. This special event will feature the juxtaposition of an older and a new artwork, offeringa powerful insight into the evolution of my artistic journey. Both projects represent significant milestones in my career and fill me with great anticipation.
Where can you see me or my work?
You can view my work at various venues and on different platforms. Currently, I am participating in a group exhibition organized by the BBK Wiesbaden, taking place from February 14 to March 3, 2025, in Wiesbaden. Another group exhibition is scheduled for July 2025 at the Old Town Hall in Wiesbaden. Additionally, I am planning a solo exhibition in 2025 at the Old Town Hall in Limburg; the exact date will be announced soon. Furthermore, I intend to showcase my works at international art fairs such as Art Paris from April 3 to 6, 2025, at the Grand Palais and Art3f Barcelona from April 11 to 13, 2025, at Fira de Barcelona .
Online, you can explore my artworks on various platforms:
- Website: http://www.heike-triebel.de
- Instagram: @heike_triebel
- LinkedIn: Heike Triebel
I look forward to sharing my art with you, both online and in person.
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
To me, the words ‘Passion Never Retires’ mean that my connection to creativity and nature is a lifelong force that constantly drives my work. My art is deeply inspired by the natural world—a connection rooted in my childhood, when I climbed trees, explored old forests, and discovered the beauty of animals like horses, red kites, lizards, and lions. These creatures embody freedom, wildness, and strength, and their presence in my work reflects my enduring fascination with the diversity of life and the importance of conservation. My personal history, particularly my escape from East Germany, has instilled in me a profound appreciation for freedom, which is a recurring theme in my paintings. My passion for experimenting with materials like oxidation paints and gauze
remains vibrant, constantly creating new opportunities for storytelling through art. This connection to nature, freedom, and the creative process ensures that my passion never fades. To me, these words encapsulate the idea that as long as we love something that inspires us, we never truly stop creating.
Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story?
Jadé Fadojutimi, Zoya Cherkassky-Nnadi, Claudette Johnson
Passion Never Retires 