Sella Molenaar’s Instagram tagline reads: “Celebrating the feminine, the sensual and the aesthetic,” which is in essence what her work is all about. Based in Amsterdam, Molenaar has come to be recognized for her feminine-focused illustrations. Her minimalistic work zooms in on the female body, with the aim to empower other women.
“I believe everyone deserves equal opportunities in life, regardless of their gender,” relayed Molenaar in an interview with Form over Function. “But because I think we live in a world that favors men, I think it’s important to give women a voice or stage. That’s why I enjoy celebrating female qualities, such as softness and fluidity—which play an important part in my creative process.”
As such, her illustrations aren’t restricted to one seemingly ideal body type, but rather allow for a more inclusive discussion, inviting women of all shapes and sizes to take part. Her inclusive approach hasn’t gone unnoticed, with brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Chloé, and M.A.C. amongst her selected clients.
“As my personality developed over the years, so did my drawings,” says Molenaar. “I evolved as a woman, learning and caring more about themes like sustainability and feminism. That personal shift of focus is clearly noticeable in my drawings.”
