From her Antwerp studio, Nathalie Van der Massen has built up a strong reputation with her textile creations in recent years. Besides her applied, more standardised collections, she also works on more artistic projects, or sometimes even on furniture or art. An introduction in five questions.
How did you get into the world of textiles?
“When I worked in the TextielMuseum in Tilburg after my studies in Graphic Design, I became fascinated by the techniques and materials. That’s why I decided to take an extra Master in Textile Design. At the end of those studies I was allowed to do research in the archives of the Flemish Architecture Institute, which made me start exploring the link between textiles and (interior) architecture. In 2018 I decided to set up my own studio, and focus solely on textiles.”
What fascinates you about textiles?
“That you build up textile thread by thread, and layer by layer. This means that you can literally do anything with it, and the possibilities are endless. It ensures that textile always continues to intrigue, and at the same time it is therefore complex. In my work, I play with the stratification of textiles, but also with light and transparency. Because these qualities are not often found in textiles, I can distinguish myself from the rest with my work. I often work with open bindings and structures, or I even cut away certain layers of yarn.
Where does your love of natural materials, especially linen, come from?
“You can never quite match the sensitivity of natural materials. They have a unique tactile and aesthetic power. Moreover, these materials are durable and biodegradable. I also love the rigidity of linen, even in the form of a thread, and I like the fact that it is an integral part of our Belgian DNA. The fact that people are choosing more and more local, authentic products of which they know where and how they are made, stimulates me to go further.
What products can people come to you for?
“On the one hand, I have a selection of fabrics by the metre, which I customise depending on the space. On the other hand, I often work on more unique pieces or limited series, which can serve as room dividers, for example. A good example is Sverige, where I translated a landscape I painted into textile. I want to show the textile and its structure in its purest form. Because that’s what gives it its poetic power.
Why textiles should be part of our interior?
“Textile increases intimacy, it gives your home a secure feeling. I also try to evoke a somewhat dreamy atmosphere with my designs, and thus incorporate a touch of poetry. Textiles also add texture to your interior. The added value lies in this wealth of materials. Moreover, the integration of textiles offers acoustic advantages, especially in large open spaces. That is why I enjoy working with architects and interior designers, so that they can take account of these possibilities from the very beginning of the design process.”
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