Artist - Nancy Brouesse

From Homeless to Award-Winning Artist: The Inspiring Story of Nancy

Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns. For Nancy, born in Duisburg (Germany) as the daughter of a French father and a Dutch mother, this was certainly the case. On November 1, 2021, her life changed forever: after thirty years of homelessness, she finally received her own home through Housing First from the Salvation Army. A safe place, a home – something she had been missing for years. And with that home came space for something else: her passion for art.

From Survival to Creation

Creativity had always been a part of Nancy, but it wasn’t until she had her own place that her talent truly flourished. She began working with abstract art, a form that allowed her to express her emotions, experiences, and life story. Her art didn’t go unnoticed. After just four months of painting, she won the Talenten Festival, and her work was immediately recognized. The winning painting was purchased by the regional director of the Salvation Army. She was also invited to share her story in various Salvation Army projects, including the EO television program Soep, Sores en Soelaas, which made a portrait of her.

One of her most significant works is the triptych ‘Past, Present, Future’, which she created for National Homeless Day. This artwork was unveiled on the streets – the very place she had spent many years – with regional press in attendance. It gained a lot of attention, and as a result, Nancy was even invited for an interview at the National Theater. An incredible recognition of her work and proof of how much she has achieved in such a short time.

Art with a Mission

But for Nancy, art is more than just expression. She wants it to make a difference, especially for those who have experienced what she has. That’s why she proudly participates in Let’s do Goods, where her art finds a new canvas: socks. Her design, ‘The Care Circle’, symbolizes connection, care, and the strength of a community that looks out for each other. And that is exactly what she has experienced in recent years.

“I am incredibly grateful that my art can make a difference for the homeless so that they can also receive socks through this project,” Nancy says. “It is an honor to be part of such a beautiful initiative.”

Looking Forward

Although her past has shaped her, Nancy prefers to look ahead. She hopes to gain more recognition for her art and dreams of participating in projects like Let’s do Goods again. “I don’t know if it’s common to participate more than once, but I would be honored to do it again,” she says enthusiastically.

Her story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the power of art. From thirty years of surviving on the streets to becoming a recognized artist with a growing reputation – Nancy proves that it is never too late to embrace your talent and reshape your life.

With her art, her story, and her commitment to the homeless, she is making the world a little warmer, step by step.