Physis
Physis
I have been inspired for a while now by the challenge of transforming a two-dimensional material into a three-dimensional work of art, by combining ancient crafts and modern means. What started with hand manipulating the craft of weaving and creating my project ‘Standing Textile(s)’, developed into ongoing research into the possibilities that arise when we repurpose ancient knowledge and heritage.
Six years later, I created ‘Physis’, on the industrial weaving looms in the textile lab of the Textile Museum, using advanced computer programs, resulting in a masterpiece of technology and art.
Weaving innovation
Each of the artworks that make up the ensemble: 'Physis', is based on the same groundbreaking 3D weaving principle that I developed especially for this assignment. Yet, this principle is applied in a unique way in each one of them, resulting in different patterns, shapes and visual effects that were discovered during the research and will surprise you again and again.
The 3-dimensional structures and the transparent warp threads contribute to an ever-changing experience of the artwork and the space. Depending on which angle you approach and view a work, as well as how the light falls on the artwork, the patterns will look different. One moment the transparent warp threads let the light through, while the next it lights up and reflects it.
In connection with the environment
With its powerful design, the foyer is visually connected to the environment behind the glass walls, that not only allow your view outside, but also the ever-changing natural light inside. Because the incidence of light is so decisive for how we experience a space and how we experience color, I chose a copper-orange color for the linen warp to radiate a feeling of warmth at every time of the day and in every season.
The foyer is no longer just a passage, but a space where you feel comfortable, where students like to study, faculty members come together, and passers-by pause to study the works of art and become aware of the connection with nature outside the building.
'Physis' is the result of a special collaboration and was created with resources from the fund that was established in 2020 in honor of Wim van de Donk's farewell as King's Commissioner. This fund received support from countless Brabant citizens and companies, and the aim was to support a young artist from Noord-Brabant. The final artwork has been donated to Tilburg University, where it will be a lasting source of inspiration and admiration.