F L A U N T
From October 21 to October 29, we dived into the dynamic scene of Dutch Design Week 2023 (DDW23) in Eindhoven, Netherlands, a hub of contemporary creativity. The focal point of our experience was the BioArt Laboratories, a pioneering eco-conscious space showcasing the future of sustainable design.
Our journey in Eindhoven during DDW23 was an immersive exploration into the captivating BioArt Laboratories. The thought-provoking exhibition, "Symbiocene Forest-Down to Earth," unveiled a series of projects delving into the Symbiocene, - a term coined by australian philosopher Glenn Albrecht. (Derived from this understanding of symbiosis have yet to be fully integrated into the diverse domains of human activity- As opposed to being anthropocentric or human-centered), to be sumbiocentric means that one is taking into account the harmony of life-interests in the total symbioment -formerly known as the environment-. A visionary realm where human activity, art, and the natural world seamlessly intertwine, sculpting a harmonious and balanced integration with nature. The exhibits provided a unique perspective, inviting us to envision a new world that embraces the interconnectedness of style, humanity, and the environment. It was a fascinating exploration of the possibilities when art and nature converge, leaving us inspired and hopeful for a more harmonious and stylish future.
This immersive encounter enriched our style sensibilities, leaving us inspired and runway-ready. Our temporary residence at the originally German World War II Military Facility, (later man made forest by Phillips), and now beautifully converted into the BioArt Laboratories and its "Symbiocene Forest", hosted our stay thanks to the invitation by its director Jalila Essaïdi, a Dutch artist, inventor and entrepreneur, pioneer of the boundless ingenuity shaping the future of sustainable style, fueling our anticipation for the chic revelations of next year's edition we so much look forward to.
As for DDW23, exploring the exhibitions was effortlessly smooth, thanks to the accessible DDW23 locations by bike and the convenient Renault Design Rides. We kicked off at the avant-garde Area 51, attending the opening event and meandering through exhibits that seamlessly merged art and innovation.
DDW23 presented a showcase of projects emphasizing material reuse, mindful living, and the redesign of everyday products, aligning with a commitment to integrate style into a sustainable lifestyle. The event aimed not only to reduce our carbon footprint but also flaunted how art seamlessly intertwines with an environmentally conscious aesthetic.
CLAVO Artist Abel Adrian‘s project began the endeavor with a pristine canvas. The live coffee painting sessions in a symbiotic dialogue with nature conducted by Adrian echoed with the spirit of the ‘Symbiocene Forest‘, encapsulating the essence of the ‘Down to Earth‘ concept. Demonstrating unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, Adrian not only framed his canvases with reclaimed wood but also employed charcoal sourced from a communal fire pit for sketching his works before delicately layering coffee upon them, adding depth and nuance to his creations. In a stroke of ingenuity, Adrian incorporated a mud fashioned from the very earth beneath his feet, infusing a tactile and elemental dimension into his creative process.
Navigating through the classified areas posed an enjoyable challenge, allowing us to curate an experience tailored to our preferences. Each category offered a variety of unique perspectives, showcasing a diverse collection of design approaches. However, our focus remained on designs and presentations addressing urgent issues like the climate crisis and social inequality. The live performances were equally impactful, resonating with the current global landscape and challenging our perceptions of human frontiers.
DDW24 is now set in our calendar for a broader look, we highly recommend you check it out and mark yours too. We will have much cooler bikes, rain gear, and a warm attitude to go along with it. BioArt Laboratories has granted us the pleasure and the insiders access.
Stay up-to-date with exclusive events and content.
