In this drawing, my grandfather is standing in front of his barn, holding a Bat 2850 hurricane lantern in his hand. His name was Frens Luten. He lived in Ruinen with my grandmother, Annie Luten–Verhagen, and passed away in 2007 at the age of 87. He owned a small riding stable with a few horses, ponies, and several pony carriages. During my childhood, I spent several weeks of my summer holidays at my grandparents’ place, helping in the stables and working in the fields. I have many fond memories of that time.
For a long time, I had the idea of combining my hobby with my family history and preserving it in a lasting way. My uncle, Robert Leerentveld, kindly agreed to turn this idea into a piece of art.
The result is exactly what I had hoped for: my grandfather in front of his barn, with his cap, suspenders, and large hands. As always, with a hand‑rolled cigarette or cigar in the corner of his mouth.
He worked in the fields until the age of 82, cared for the horses and ponies, and carried heavy milk churns filled with water to the pastures.
My grandfather was not a talker—he was a hard worker who never complained. I have great respect for him, and I’m grateful to have this drawing made as a lasting memory.
