Initially Roelfsema’s art was dark and introvert, reflecting her own period of life. Later however, she changed her life and with it her choice of color and style.

In 2004 Sylvia quit her job, sold her house and travelled in her mini-van through Europe. She settled in a small community in France where she lived in a primitive environment. She painted in an old shed while cultivating the land for food. Sylvia’s work from this time period is to be recognised by its extreme simplicity.

After one year of living in nature, she left the community to return to The Netherlands and start a solitary existence dedicated to art. She moved to an empty farmers house in 2006 where the local authorities allowed her to reside until it would get sold. The house turned into a well-decorated characteristic landmark of the town, Roelfsema into a well-respected artist. She gained media attention and started to teach art. Her basic living conditions kept reflecting her basic art style. often existing of just a few powerful strokes. Walking figures in which decoration still plays a mayor part. Portrets are painted straight from the jar. Her distinctive style reflects power and sensitivity but it remains modest. In 2009 we see the silhouette of her figures changing; they become more realistic and get more body. The decoration on the background fades away and in some instances oilpaint makes its comeback.

2010
Simplicity, silence and growth are keywords of my life and with it the essence of my art.

All sides of my being are expressed in accurate lines that find their way to the linnen in a semi-consious state of mind . The results are archetypes, universally recognisable in every human being.

2010/2011
Coaching workshops in Museum Boijmans van Beuningen.
"Meestervervalsers" and "De grote ogen van Kees van Dongen".

2011
Psygological Portrets

These series were born out of the idea of making close-up-portraits of those figures, that had been subject of my previous paintings.

It appeared to be an illusion. Soon the project starts leading its own life and the faces become unique characters of their own.

In the paintings you will find several of my signature artistic styles fighting to get priority. Subtle sketches interchange with powerful strokes.

I use acrylics, gesso, lots of water, stamping techniques and occasionally a lace application .

Workshop " Het grote-doe-het- zelf- festival-versierproject", Magneetfestival Amsterdam