Els Coppens-van de Rijt

Johanna Elisabeth "Els" Coppens-van de Rijt (born August 18, 1943) is an artist and author from Vlierden, Netherlands.

Coppens-van de Rijt was born in Sint-Oedenrode, as one of twins to a Roman Catholic family with 11 children. She studied at the Design Academy Eindhoven with Kees Bol and Jan Gregoor and at the Art Academy of Maastricht. Here she met her husband, sculptor Joep Coppens.

After her studies she made name as a painter, in particular of portraits. She ceased painting, however, due to Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Since, she has been writing among others on her Christian belief.

Books written 1996 – The other reality 1997 – I stayed at the edge of the river 2002 – Frank letters of belief 2008 – Martien Coppens, from village boy to city man (with Joep Coppens)