Eindhoven: Alumni from the Design Academy showcased innovative works at Object Rotterdam, providing a valuable sales platform for emerging talents. Graduates highlighted diverse materials and concepts, reflecting the city’s supportive design ecosystem amidst post-graduation challenges.
Eindhoven’s Design Academy alumni showcased their innovative creations at Object Rotterdam, which took place from 14 to 16 February in the former V&D building at Rodezand 46. The event served as a prominent platform for emerging designers to present their work to a broader audience, particularly at a time when many are navigating their careers post-graduation.
Maria Murphy, who graduated in 2024, highlighted the cultural contrasts influencing her work and personal life. Originating from Argentina, she recounted, “For my conservative mother, talking about sex is absolutely taboo,” but found an opportunity for open dialogue during her graduation celebration. This dialogue reflects the open-minded ethos at the Design Academy.
Samuel Szraga, a 2022 graduate, now runs a studio in Strijp-S where he crafts lamps and chairs from scrap steel. He remarked on the distinctiveness of Object compared to the Dutch Design Week, saying, “At Object, visitors really come to buy something, which is different from the Dutch Design Week. I hope my work will eventually earn enough so that I can keep making it.”
Marie van der Kroft, who also graduated last year, used Object as her inaugural exhibition location, presenting a cabinet designed with the interplay of metal and gravity. “I am glad that I was able to find a workspace in Eindhoven,” she said, underscoring the supportive ecosystem for designers in the region.
Another participant, Marguerite Perianu, returned to the Netherlands from France for the event. She expressed her enthusiasm for showcasing her graduation work involving bamboo and natural plastics. “It is very exciting to discover whether my graduation work resonates with the audience at Object,” she noted.
Ruben Warnshuis, winner of the Kazerne Design Award in 2022, explored the versatility of rope in his latest projects, which included cabinets and a sideboard incorporating handmade rope techniques. He emphasised that he makes everything by hand, showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship.
The organisers of Object have urged designers to consider a diverse range of products, advocating for smaller, more affordable items alongside exclusive pieces. Jeroen Wand, a local furniture maker, shared insights into his projects involving leftover veneer, stating, “We are now also making custom wall panels that are finished with a unique veneer pattern.”
Margriet Foolen, a graduate from 2006, reflected on the diverse career paths her peers have taken post-graduation. She collaborates with artisans to create items from discarded clothing, adding a sustainable touch to her designs.
When asked about participation in the upcoming Dutch Design Week, many participants from Object expressed reluctance, citing the length of the event and its focus on concepts rather than sellable products. The three-day format of Object provides a more direct opportunity for sales, aligning with the goals of many designers focusing on tangible creations.
Among the many notable exhibits, Teun Zwets showcased new cabinets and chairs alongside his innovative signage throughout the venue. Studio Co Pain, composed of three graduates from 2024, presented work featuring unusual materials, such as bread dough. Willem Zwiers, a 2023 graduate, captivated visitors with his watering cans and vases, which have become particularly popular.
Dirk Duif, still studying at the Design Academy, exhibited for the second time, demonstrating his passion for chair design. Tom Schoonhoven, also a 2022 graduate, displayed his Tubelamp and wooden furniture embellished with ceramic details, further exemplifying the embodiment of creativity among young designers.
Object Rotterdam operated from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day of the event, with admission prices set at €17.50, while children up to 16 years were granted free entry. The fair highlighted a vibrant community of designers and their unique contributions to contemporary design.
Source: Noah Wire Services
