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Imagine growing up in Puno, more than 3,800 meters above sea level, next to Lake Titicaca—the highest navigable lake in the world. A place where the colors of the Virgen de la Candelaria Festival fill the streets with music, dance, and traditions that feel straight out of a fairytale. Now, picture bringing all that magic to Amsterdam, a city where art flows through the canals, bicycles reign supreme, and the weather—though unpredictable—never slows down cultural innovation.
This is the story of María Elena, a Peruvian artist who has fused her Andean roots with European innovation, becoming a key figure in the contemporary art world. Today, as the curator of Gallery Intussen, María Elena not only opens the doors to her life and art but also invites artists and art lovers to be part of a unique space in the heart of Amsterdam.
From Puno to Amsterdam: A Childhood Full of Art and Dreams
María Elena was born in Juliaca, Puno, and grew up in a home where creativity was as natural as the air she breathed.
“My parents were my inspiration. My father loved sewing, and my mother had an innate talent for interior and exterior design. She adored nature and plants. If I told you everything about them, we’d never finish!” she recalls with a smile that lights up the room.
From an early age, art was already part of her life.
“As a child, I played with my sisters, creating extravagant worlds. I dreamed of becoming an architect and a fashion designer. Art was always there, even though I didn’t know it yet,” she confesses.
Her childhood in Peru was a vibrant mix of colors, traditions, and values that shaped her deeply.
“I’m very proud to be Andean. I never forget where I come from, because if I did, I wouldn’t know where I’m going,” she says with a determination that makes it clear why she has come so far.
A Leap to Europe: An Adventure of Love and Perseverance
María Elena arrived in the Netherlands for two reasons: love and adventure.
“I visited Amsterdam and fell in love. I told myself, ‘In three years, I’ll be living here.’ And that’s exactly what happened,” she says with the determination that seems to define her.
But adapting wasn’t easy—the weather, the food, and the language were all initial challenges.
“You adapt quickly if you have clear dreams. Perseverance is key,” she affirms.
Despite the obstacles, María Elena found a home in Amsterdam.
“The Dutch are honest and wonderful people. They welcomed me, and I felt at home from the start,” she says. And it’s no surprise—Amsterdam is a city that embraces you with its canals, its bicycles, and its love for art.
“In Puno, art isn’t something you learn; it’s something you live. Every festival, every color, every sound inspires you to create. I carry those colors in my soul, and I brought them with me to Amsterdam, where they now bloom in new ways.”
– María Elena
An Artistic Awakening: From Peru to the Classrooms of Rietveld
t was in Amsterdam that María Elena consciously discovered her passion for art.
“I started taking painting courses, and I ended up studying at Rietveld, one of the most prestigious art schools in Europe. It was a dream come true,” she recalls with the excitement of someone who has chased and caught their dreams.
But her entrepreneurial spirit started much earlier.
“At 18, I was already an entrepreneur—I had my own boutique of exclusive clothing in Lima,” she says proudly.
For María Elena, transitioning from artist to entrepreneur felt natural.
“I didn’t see it as a change. I love what I do, especially when it involves art, culture, and fashion. I’m passionate about it,” she says. And that passion shines through in every word she speaks and every project she undertakes.
Gallery Intussen: A Space for Borderless Art
In 2021, María Elena and her partner, Henk Willem, founded Gallery Intussen in East Amsterdam.
“It’s a unique space, built with noble materials and spectacular architecture. Henk is a civil engineer, and his father was an architect, so together we created something magical,” she explains proudly.
The gallery is a sanctuary for all forms of art—painting, performance, music, dance, theater…
“Everything is welcome,” she says enthusiastically.
The mission? To give visibility to overlooked artistic visions, creating a space where underrepresented communities can flourish. Located in the green surroundings of De 1800 Roeden, Gallery Intussen seeks a symbiotic connection with nature and a fresh perspective on Amsterdam’s cultural landscape: more inclusive, diverse, and playful.
One of her biggest achievements was securing funding to host a neighborhood festival with Amsterdam’s Director of Culture.
“It was a very special moment. We’re growing, and we want to be a reference in the European art scene,” she says.
Bridging Cultures: Art as a Link Between Peru and Europe
María Elena has noticed differences in how art is perceived in Latin America versus Europe.
“In our countries, art isn’t always valued. Here, while not everyone appreciates it, a much larger percentage do,” she reflects.
Her next project? Bringing one of Peru’s finest ceramic artists, Rosamar Corcuera, to exhibit at Intussen.
“Her art is magical—it transports you to another world,” she says, visibly excited.
A Space for Everyone
If you’re an artist looking for a place to exhibit, María Elena invites you to reach out through www.galleryintussen.nl.
“We welcome all styles and disciplines. If you have talent and passion, this is your space,” she assures.
For art lovers, the gallery offers a unique venue to enjoy exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.
“We have a green area and free parking—a luxury in Amsterdam. Come visit us and be surprised!” she invites.
For Latin American Artists and Entrepreneurs
For those dreaming of making a career in Europe, María Elena has a clear message:
“Persevere, believe in your talent, and don’t be afraid to fall. Life isn’t easy, but with a positive attitude and hard work, anything is possible.”
“Gallery Intussen isn’t just a space to exhibit art; it’s a place where souls connect. Here, artists can showcase their passion, and the audience can discover new worlds. It’s my way of giving back to the world a little bit of the magic that art has given me.”
– María Elena
María Elena is proof that art transcends borders and unites cultures. Her story reminds us that no matter where we come from, we can always carry a piece of home with us wherever we go.
And you? What do you think about her journey? Do you believe art can be a bridge between cultures? Leave us a comment, share this article with your friends, and subscribe for more inspiring stories about Peruvians around the world!
