My uncle and aunt, who passed away a few years ago at a respectable age, left behind a collection of artworks they had created over the years. Some of the works were sold, others stolen by a dubious dealer in Spain, and still others given away to family. The last 100 paintings, drawings, etchings, and textile works ended up with me because no one else wanted or could house them. These works were just like my uncle and aunt: whimsical, outspoken, and sometimes difficult to face head-on.

For two years, these artworks gathered dust in my studio. We opened the doors, spread the works around the space, placed them against the windows, and laid out loose drawings, etchings, and paintings on the table. We put up 'Free paintings' signs on the windows, and after a few weeks, everything was gone.

One of the most unexpected visitors was a neighbour who came in with a cry, repeatedly exclaiming how beautiful the colours were. These works made her day, brought sparkle to her life. She talked about her travels, her mother, the art academy in Arnhem, and changes in the neighbourhood. When she heard that the works were free, her mouth fell open. I asked her if she would like to choose a painting. She continued to talk about the beauty of the works and the colours. She went on about her first visit to Amsterdam, her father, and how convenient the 24/7 pharmacy at Amsterdam Central is. As she was leaving, I asked her again if she might want to take a small drawing. She assured me she would and promised to visit again soon.

All the artworks have found a new home, with friends, neighbours, passing Amsterdammers, a package delivery person, tourists, and someone who was mostly interested in the frame the painting was in.

What surprised me the most is that although the works can be difficult to handle or place, they ultimately find their way to people who see beauty and meaning in them. It shows how generosity, making and sharing art can connect people by simply opening the door and giving something away.

With thanks to Josef (Joop) Marie Mader and Etty Mader-Stomps, thanks to Mascha and my studio mates for speaking with the people who walked in.