The project CHANGING STATES explores the complex life journey of Elli Kruithof (1926–2009), a woman who traded her passion for art and creativity for a career in theology. Artist @jitskeschols brings the many facets of Elli’s life to light, from her struggle for recognition and love to her unwavering spirit and sense of humor. This series of paintings, highlighting the inner strength of a woman who refused to be defined by circumstances and always carved her own path, will be shown at @soon.gallery.antwerp during Antwerp Art Weekend 2025.
Jitske Schols (b. 1969) is a Dutch visual artist based in Amsterdam. With a background in communications, she merges her interest in people and their stories with her love of painting. Her work often revives the stories of overlooked or forgotten women—HERstories—as a counterbalance to male-dominated historical narratives. She examines how intersections of identity, such as gender, class, and heritage, have shaped these women’s lives and legacies.
“These women are not muses, but mentors. Every painting is a conversation with them.” – Jitske Schols
CHANGING STATES
a solo by @jitskeschols
OPENING WEEKEND 30 May – 1 June