In a corner of the world where canals wind through a city brimming with stories and gray skies inspire reflection, we find Luz Belén Mendizábal. This Peruvian artist, based in the Netherlands, has woven a journey that reminds us that even in the darkest moments, light can emerge from the passions we carry within. From Carabayllo, a hardworking neighborhood in northern Lima, to the vibrant galleries of Amsterdam.
Her life is a testament to how creativity can be a refuge and strength in times of adversity. Her story reflects not only the effort of those who emigrate in search of a better life but also the power of art to heal and connect worlds.
A neighborhood that shaped her: A childhood of learning and friendship
Growing up in the district of Carabayllo in Lima, Luz Belén had a childhood marked by constant moves and the lessons of a vibrant neighborhood. She attended public schools and fondly remembers her afternoons playing on the streets, where she discovered the value of friendship and learned lessons not found in textbooks.
She grew up in a simple and noble family. Her mother was an example of resilience, and her father, an untiring worker, They were the cornerstone of her youth. Art was never a topic of conversation at home, but Luz found in poetry and writing a way to express her emotions, especially when love first knocked on her door.
Although she loved writing from a young age, she never imagined that she would one day publish a book. Her love for reading began with the book “Veronika Decides to Die” by Paulo Coelho, which left an indelible mark on her and opened the door to a world of inspiration.
Liverpool: The awakening of her passion for art
Luz Belén’s journey took her across various European countries until she arrived in Liverpool, England, in 2007. This city completely transformed her. The music, galleries, and architecture of Liverpool immersed her in a world that expanded her creativity. She decided to study Art Design, a process she describes as the happiest years of her life. During those years, she not only honed her artistic skills but also graduated with honors, which motivated her to keep going.
However, Luz Belén also acknowledged that during that time, she somewhat set aside her Peruvian culture. Despite this, her connection to her roots remained intact, and she eventually found new ways to integrate them into her work.
A new beginning in the Netherlands
In 2019, Luz Belén moved to Amsterdam, where she faced one of the toughest times of her life. “I lived through the most difficult times of my life in the Netherlands,” she shares. The loss of her sister and the challenges of adapting to a new country intensified with the arrival of the pandemic. She found solace in the city’s canals, which became witnesses to her tears and her healing process. “When I went out to walk along the canals, I was glad that everything was water, because I always cried in them,” she recalls.
For two years, the pain was so deep that she stopped writing altogether. However, one day, like an unexpected spark, her passion re-emerged, transforming into a beautiful creation: A children’s story book
Mallki and the Lost Star
Amid the sadness, inspiration returned in a different form: a children’s book titled “Mallki and the Lost Star”. Inspired by her nephew Mateo, who was diagnosed with autism, the book reflects how an autistic child perceives the world. Additionally, Luz Belén pays tribute to her late sister in the book, portraying her as a star that always accompanies her. Mallki is not only a tribute full of love but also a message of compassion, emotional acceptance, and perseverance.
Painting as a reflection of the soul
Painting also holds a central place in Luz Belén’s life. Inspired by her emotions, books, and travel memories, she creates works that combine techniques such as painting on fabric, embroidery, and textile design. Luz Belén is fascinated by Peruvian traditional art, from sculptures to Inca ceramics, which feed her pride in her roots.
In her creative process, she treasures a notebook where she jots down thoughts, sketches, and ideas that later come to life in her artworks. Her constant exploration and eagerness to experiment with new techniques showcase her innovative spirit and love for art.
Dreams that transcend borders
Luz Belén has big dreams: teaching art to children in Peru, encouraging reading and writing, and opening galleries in northern Lima and other cities. Additionally, she works tirelessly to promote Peruvian culture alongside other artists and people committed to sharing traditions and customs. For her, Peruvian creativity is a treasure that deserves to be shared and celebrated worldwide.
A divided heart and a message of inspiration
Luz Belén confesses that her heart is divided between two worlds: Peru, which she tries to visit, at least once a year, and the Netherlands, where she has found personal growth and love. Both countries are an essential part of her identity and contribute to her vision of art and life.
Luz Belén thanks peruanos.nl for the opportunity to share her story, hoping to inspire others to pursue their dreams and never stop exploring their creativity. “Art is for sharing,” she says with conviction.
We invite you to follow Luz Belén on her Instagram account: @belmendesigns to discover more about her work and future projects.
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