Yes…OceanTrash, the project I never intended to start—until I did.

As a full-time artist, I live for the sea. It’s my love, my magic and sometimes my biggest headache. One day during what was supposed to be a peaceful surf session, I found myself surrounded by ropes floating in the water. They were the tangled shitty kind of ropes. Being the artist that I am, I did nothing with it… for a while. Besides taking them home of course. Then one day, the light bulb finally flickered on and I realized it was time to make a move.

My goal? To kickstart this machine, get it running smoothly and then hand it off to the world. Because let’s face it, ocean pollution isn’t just my problem—it’s everyone’s. And it’s going to take global support to tackle this global challenge.

Eventually, I hope to pass the baton and retreat back into my art again, where I can tell stories with a paintbrush instead of tangled ropes.

Until then, I’ll happily stick my nose into business as much as I can, surround myself with an army of Lovers, and get the world to see how breathtaking, fragile and valuable our Oceans truly are. Because it’s not just about sheer beauty you know, it’s the air you breath. 

As a marketer, I believe in not just driving commercial success but also making a positive impact on the world. Sustainability is at the core of everything I do.

That’s why I invest 10% of my commercial services in projects that truly make a difference, including efforts to combat ocean trash.

Our oceans are vital to life on Earth, yet we treat them as if we have a backup. This behavior endangers biodiversity and causes immense animal suffering. It’s time to stop.

By supporting sustainable projects, I aim to contribute to a better future. We must take responsibility for the damage we’ve done and protect the ocean for future generations.

Since stepping into the world of professional photography in the year 1856, I’ve found immense joy in capturing the beauty of birds. Whether it’s the everyday charm of common species or the vibrant allure of exotic ones, my camera and I are always on the hunt for that perfect shot.
I’m especially drawn to minimalistic, high-key photography, where the elegance of a single gull, tern, or spoonbill against a clear sky can create a stunning visual story.

But my passion doesn’t stop at bird and wildlife photography. You’ll also find me beneath the waves, camera in hand. As a qualified diver equipped with top-notch gear, where I strive to capture the magic that lies beneath the surface.

My dual love for the ocean and photography led me to partner with OceanTrash, an initiative close to my heart. Founded by a woman close to my heart.

Through my work with OceanTrash, I’m committed to making a difference, no matter how small. I see it like a single raindrop on a still lake—one ripple can travel great distances, spreading energy far and wide.
Whether on land or underwater, photography or conservation, I give 110% to everything I do with OceanTrash. My hope is that the ripples I create through my lens will someday cross paths with yours.

With my label Hofmeisjes, I bring a touch of joy everywhere I go, including OceanTrash.

Both privately and professionally, I strive to preserve Dutch World Heritage, especially the Wadden Sea.
The preservation of our sea, including the Ocean and the (sea) animals that live in it, is close to my heart.

I am eager to showcase beautiful initiatives and use my network to connect people.
That’s why I am happily collaborating with Marieke and Arjen, both creative professionals, to make a difference.

I come from a family of fishers, so everything related to the sea has been instilled in me from a young age.
I’ve worked at sea in herring and smelt fisheries and served as a ship’s cook on a coastal vessel.

The reason I still live in Harlingen is simple: the sea. It brings me peace.

I’m passionate about animals and love supporting causes like the Animal Protection Society, Greenpeace, and WWF.
My connection to OceanTrash and the drive to help marine life was a natural fit. Finally, I feel like I’m doing something that truly matters. With the impact of fishing both back then and now more significant than ever, this work really calls for strong support. And I am up for it all the way.

I find joy in creating beautiful bracelets, helping with beachcombing, guiding social workplaces, and contributing ideas on every front.

My love for the sea is like the ebb and flow of the tides, always in motion.
From a young age, I was already a true island girl, as my ancestors came from Vlieland and Terschelling and were captains during the last era of Great Sailing.
Our vacations were always spent on Vlieland.
With saltwater in my veins, I continued my trips to the Wadden Islands as often as possible, including volunteering as a wad guide for the Waddenvereniging.

I also discovered surfing, which I’ve become a huge fan of!
Now that I’m more tied to home and the village, having married a chocolatier in beautiful Oosterbeek, the sea seems a bit further away. Luckily, I can still pour all my love and passion for the ocean and its inhabitants into helping OceanTrash by making those cool bracelets.
It feels great to make a positive contribution to all marine life!

I’m Plien, a surfer from Wijk aan Zee with a great love for the sea.

I’ve been surfing for 9 years now, with longboarding being my passion.
I’m always on the hunt for the most beautiful waves. I travel all over the world and visit many beaches 🧡

A few years ago, I met Marieke from OceanTrash. She told me all about their mission to keep beaches and seas as clean as possible and to protect animals from ocean trash.
They turn something as negative as ocean trash into something special and positive, in the form of a bracelet.

I’m incredibly proud to contribute to something so beautiful and important 🧡

Growing up in a family with some creative people and an interest in nature, the chance that I got some of those genes was pretty big.

Since I can remember we went to Vlieland on holidays, and it was always one of my favourite places to be.

Now that I’m older, and playing volleyball professionally I have some extra time on my hands.

With the story of my aunt and the interest I already had, helping her with this project was an easy choice.
Even if it’s just a little bit, I hope to contribute to a little cleaner sea and world.