It was his dream to become a deck officer in the Netherlands merchant navy but because of family issues he had to stop his seamans career after two and a half year. He then studied at the Graphical Arts School in Amsterdam and became an industrial photographer. During that time he lived and worked two years in Paris, 21 years in Italy. After many years as an accomplished photographer he decided to become a professional truck driver. After 15 years on the European roads he retired and together with his wife moved to the Philippines, her birth country. During the years as a photographer he has built a large collection of photographs which he now uses as one source for his drawings. He is a great admirer of Pieter Breughel and when in the mood he makes drawings depicting the 1600s.