Marleen (also known as Paddy) grew up in Pretoria, matriculating at the Pro Arte High School for Art, Ballet, and Music. After matric she ventured into music and the graphic art and advertising world. As a freelance artist, Marleen was commissioned to do several artworks for public buildings and corporates. Marleen’s first solo exhibition was held in 1987. Another three solo exhibitions followed. She also participated in numerous group exhibitions alongside other acclaimed artists.

After lecturing adults in Art for three years at the Hatfield Christian Training Centre, she was led back to the commercial art field in 1995. Marleen established Blue Note Art Studio cc, which offers graphic design and illustration facilities. Clients include ad-agencies, lodges across Africa, and SA National Parks and Publishers.

Marleen is also an accomplished professional musician, her instruments being saxophone, flute, guitar and vocals. She believes that all art forms are integrated in some way. Her passion for life, the ultimate Creator and his creation inspires her to express her experiences and impressions in a myriad of ways. Scuba diving and sailing have become integral parts of her life, adding a new dimension to her art and music. Her husband is a professional photographer and they often collaborate on projects as they travel and explore the beauty of creation.

“The diversity we see around us is motivation for me to constantly improve as an individual and as an artist. The innocence and childlike wisdom of my three daughters have captured my heart. This stirs me to do everything I do with sincere conviction and passion.” - Marleen.

Marleen’s paintings are for sale in galleries in and around Pretoria, and on her website.