I'm Sylvia van Ommen, I like to draw. I also enjoy being outside, feeling sunshine on my face, eating self grown food,, cold showers, solving puzzles, a coffee in the morning and take time to look at the world around me.

I've been drawing for as long as I remember. Each time I start a blank sheet I marvel at the process of something coming into being with ink or paint, pencil or pen. Anything can happen!

I went to the art academy where I specialized in illustration. In 2001 I graduated with lots of drawings and the book 'drop'. It was picked up by a publisher and before I knew it 'drop' (jellybeans) came out. It got translated in nine languages. Soon after I made 'de verrassing' (the surprise) which also is translated.

Observing the extraordinary in the ordinary and finding the humor in everyday things is something that keeps fascinating me and this often comes back in my work.: In illustrations, texts and designs.

And in my daily cartoon, Os and Jo Show, I can reflect on life, put things in perspective and be silly sometimes.

With the fantastic Maurice van der Bij, the man in my life, I form the company Fruitcocktail. Maurice is an animator, designer and maker of nearly everything. It is a pleasure to share ideas and create things together.

NB Did you know the name Sylvia originates from the Latin word for forest 'Silva' meaning spirit of the wood.