In cooperation with Art Revisited, a first book with still life from Eric De Vree : "Reflections" is published.  The preface is written by Henk Helmantel.  Introduction by Wim Ellens.

The book has 72 full colour pages, in Dutch and English, with approx. 45 images, covering the period 1997-2005.
Size : 22,5 x 23,5 cm. 

MIRANDA'S CUDDLY TOY  

Besides the traditional story and some tickling before going to sleep, a
cuddly toy is also indispensable for children's sleep. As an inseparable
twosome child and cuddly toy turn in together every night. If “Miffy” or
“Lucky” are missing, no one is going to sleep till further notice…

Just when the parents are ready for a “not now, love” episode, after a day's work, the little one
opens his throat and screams blue murder! With no room for discussion the parents shuffle through
the house in search of ‘that monster'.

Many people remember their cuddly toy. Many have been kept for years even though some
patching up has been necessary where too much love has worn them.

In the spring of 1998 my parents-in-law found my wife's cuddly toy during spring cleaning.  My
mother-in-law had pointed out her daughter's thrift on several occasions in the past, but I wasn't convinced until I saw Miranda's cuddly toy… the animal was as good as new!

It was smuggled into my studio in all secrecy, where it was painted the next summer as a surprise
for Miranda's 30 th birthday.

After a charm offensive with mother, our children managed to be allowed to sleep with the toy
elephant in turns. The joy did not last very long though. Due to over-enthusiasm (let's call it that)
the poor animal was left without tail and with ears that flap in all directions.

However, these defects are largely compensated by the painting in which the cuddly toy remains
‘alive' in all its glory.