Shortly after World War II, Anne Marie's parents decided to live in a healthier environment. They moved to the Withoefse Heide, where they were able to build a modest home thanks to the De Taeye law. Amid the vast heathland, fens and dune landscapes, Anne Marie spent her childhood. Although she later moved to Deurne, she took a piece of the heathland with her in the form of a painting, painted by artist Alfons Van Ginderen. We visited Anne Marie at her service flat in Berchem, where she reminisced about her childhood. Together with her, we also returned to the moors, where she shared with us the places that are so dear to her. She told us about adventurous treks through the forest, about how the morning mist transformed every blade of grass into a shimmering wand, and how the painting still warms her heart today.
Thanks to Anne Marie Driessens for sharing her wonderful stories.
Image, audio and editing by Jasper Dufraing
Verhalen van Heide & Verre is a campaign of Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide.
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