Nele Vanheel

Nele Vanheel is a Belgian interdisciplinary artist and director whose work blends poetic rawness with emotional depth. With a background in orthopedagogy, she brings a unique sensitivity to her art, exploring themes such as emotional development, intuitive living, systems theory, positive disintegration, spirituality (non-duality), and philosophy.

Working independently under the name heelvannele, Nele creates performance art and multidisciplinary projects, often incorporating film as a powerful medium for inner exploration. Her artistic voice is authentic, contemplative, and grounded in a deep sense of service—each project emerging from a genuine desire to contribute to a better, more conscious world.

Her debut documentary, The Veil of Maya, a deeply personal and introspective journey through her own life, marked her entrance into the film world. Her work has been compared to that of Terrence Malick for its poetic visual language and philosophical undertones.

Nele approaches creation as a sacred, intuitive process—listening for where she can be of service, and letting the work grow from that space.

The Veil of Maya was created as a contribution to the Positive Disintegration Congress, under the theme Living the Theory. Rather than explaining the theory, I chose to live it – and to show how its principles are embodied in my own life. The film is an intimate exploration of emotional growth, identity deconstruction, and the spiritual path.

From a holistic perspective, I notice how much of our public attention goes to mental, physical, and even relational health – but emotional development remains largely unseen, undervalued, or misunderstood. We struggle to relate to our own emotions, often numbing or escaping them through addiction, overactivity, or distraction. As a result, we also struggle to hold space for the emotions of others – including our children.

With The Veil of Maya, I hope to gently bring emotional and spiritual development into the light. I don't aim to teach or convince – but to touch, to inspire, and to invite reflection. If the film resonates, it's not because I offer answers, but because I show what it means to sit with the questions.