Mrs. Helichrysum - Art That Whispers a Strory
- ARTISTIC HUB MAGAZINE
- Mar 20
- 5 min read
DUBAI | UAE
The art of Sophia Van Der Bank, known as Mrs. Helichrysum, is a tapestry of emotions, stories, and warmth. Her paintings and illustrations carry a quiet tenderness, stirring forgotten yet familiar feelings.
Born in South Africa and now creating in Dubai, Sophia weaves past and present, dreams and memories into her work. Her chosen name reflects this essence.
Like the Helichrysum flower, which keeps its form and fragrance even when dried, her art preserves moments that linger, untouched by time.
Who is behind the name Mrs. Helichrysum? Your artistic name is inspired by the Helichrysum flower, a part of your childhood in South Africa. Could you share the story behind this name? What does it symbolize for you, and how did it become an essential part of your artistic identity?
Oh, Mrs. H…
She is the woman I dream of becoming one day, even though I am the one behind the alias.
Her name is inspired by yellow Helichrysum flowers that carpet the valley of my childhood in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It carries the warmth of my favorite colour: the colour of joy, nostalgia, and home. Yellow!
For as long as I can remember, I have loved capturing emotion on paper, whether by pencil or by brush. Five years ago, a thought took root: “I want to share this with the world.” But I needed the right persona for this endeavor. I wondered, who would embody the tenderness of Beatrix Potter and the comforting presence of Mrs. Doubtfire? Who feels like a well-loved story; like warm hands wrapped around a cup of tea? Mrs. Helichrysum felt just right.
She is whoever the heart needs her to be: a mother, a grandmother, a sister, or a friend. To me, she is both stability and freedom.
How did you develop your style and artistic voice? Since you did not go through formal art education, how did you learn and refine your skills? What were the biggest challenges, and what do you consider your advantage compared to artists with a traditional academic background?
My artistic journey began as soon as I could sound out words and hold a crayon or paintbrush. I grew up in a creative family, where art, play, and books were not just encouraged but woven into everyday life. I developed my style through a love of observing other artists and illustrators, locally and internationally, drawing inspiration from their work, while exploring my own path.
Experimenting with different media, paper, and canvas, became second nature, a process I believe many artists grow through. There’s a kind of magic in it: a joy in discovering new colours and textures while keeping Mrs. H as the heart of it all - her warmth, her whimsy and the narrative she carries. I wanted to weave her essence into my words and paintings, creating a world that feels both familiar and enchanting.
Refining my skill was driven by my passion for what Mrs. H wants to say and represent for others. By repeating the process over and over, the message became clearer, and she found her voice. I encourage fellow creatives to find their narrative and be driven by the passion behind it. Don’t get discouraged, persist!
Since I was not formally trained, my biggest challenge was gaining confidence in my work. However, my artistic voice developed organically, without the pressure to conform to academic standards or trends. I am not bound by traditional techniques or theory, which allows a more intuitive and playful approach.
Mrs. H exists because of this independence, not despite it.
Your art often feels like part of a story, woven with emotions and deep symbolism. Do you first create a narrative you want to convey and then transfer it onto the canvas, or does the painting itself "speak" and shape the story? How do you manage to blend visual fairytale-like elements with deeper themes such as nostalgia, sorrow, or inner strength?
The narrative exists before it is translated onto canvas or paper. My art is almost always accompanied by words or poetry, breathing life into each piece. The inspiration for my writing often comes from observing people and nature; whether the moment is uncomfortable, heart-wrenching, humorous, or beautiful, there is always a story waiting to be told.
My artwork often appears whimsical and cozy, and is intentionally lighthearted. However, the accompanying poetry can sometimes tell a different story: one that invites the viewer to look deeper. There is more beneath the surface than what meets the eye. Take for example my recent Petite Nuit series: At first glance, it may seem like playful art, but if you look closely, there's more to discover…
You live in Dubai, a dynamic artistic hub that brings together creatives from around the world.
How has living in this environment influenced your artistic expression? Does Dubai inspire you differently than South Africa? What is the art scene like there, and how does it feel to be a part of it?
Dubai is a stunning city, and the UAE as a whole boasts a rich history, vast landscapes, and an incredibly diverse culture. Living here is truly a privilege.
As someone who recharges in nature, it can be challenging at times. The city however offers beautiful parks and hidden green spaces - little pockets of nature that provide the perfect conditions to sit, reflect, and refuel creativity.
Dubai’s art scene is still evolving, and I’m excited to see how it will continue to take shape in the years to come. This city has given me so many unique opportunities, and along the way I’ve met incredible people who have enriched my journey.
Your work has already been featured in several significant exhibitions. How do you experience the moment when your paintings leave the studio and meet the audience? Is there a particular exhibition or viewer reaction that has left a lasting impression on you?
I’m naturally an introverted soul who prefers to stay out of the spotlight. I once wrote, "I hide my face beneath brims and shadows because I am too weary of eyes that perch like hawks.” So yes, putting yourself out there is both marvellous and terrifying.
I know my work has formed deep emotional connections with my viewers, and I hope it continues to do so. There’s something beautiful about making someone feel.
What are you currently working on, and what can the audience expect in the future? Are there any new projects, exhibitions, or series of works that are currently inspiring you?
I’m currently bringing “The Leaf Hopper” to life: a series designed to sprinkle a little extra whimsy and colour into children’s rooms, kitchens, or anywhere needing a touch of magic.
I am also in the process of self-publishing a little book about two precious characters adventuring through all 4 seasons of the year. Keep an eye on @by_mrs_helichrysum for updates.
Mrs. H has many dreams and aspires to achieve much. She is there for the young, and for the young at heart too.
Every piece that Sophia Van Der Bank creates tells a story. Sometimes told through lines and colors, sometimes through words, always through feeling. Her art reaches beyond the canvas, drawing the viewer inward. As she expands series like The Leaf Hopper, brings new books to life, and explores the world with her brush, one thing remains. Mrs. Helichrysum traces unseen paths, leaving behind impressions that stay.
