We like sailing - mentally too
The Netherlands is the source of a lot of creative potential, as is demonstrated by the trade fair contractors Totems, Laarhoven, Aluvision and Gielissen. At Heimtextil, Frankfurt's international trade fair for home textiles and commercially used textiles, Gunnar Frank - designer, stylist and Dutchman explains why this is.
Mr Frank, what projects benefit from your creativity?
Gunnar Frank: For several years now I have been creating the special shows for Heimtextil, ChristmasWorld and Paperworld, plus the trend areas at Heimtextil India in Mumbai and the Carpet Fair in Varanassi. I am involved in print design in Belgium and in the eastern Netherlands, I run a sort of style consultancy that focuses on all the festive seasons of the year. What about "inspiration"? Where do you keep getting fresh ideas from?I like going out. I find inspiration at the theatre, at the opera, with friends in restaurants and cafés or, for example, on cycle tours in the countryside. But travelling abroad is especially important for my creativity: other countries, cultures, people, languages really stimulate me and often point to developments.
Why do you think so much creative talent comes from the Netherlands?
Well, the Netherlands has little industry and has always been dependent on commerce. Like me, my countrymen were always keen travellers. We like sailing - mentally too. We had vast colonies, a strong fleet. And we were always exposed to influences from all over the world: We are a very liberal country. But we are also a small, original country with a great history of art, which is why we have tremendous art schools. The students are always told: ‘The Netherlands is too small. Take your talents out into the world.'
And can you give us a brief outline of the new trends for this season?
We can distinguish four basic lines: wood, the group comprising steel, chrome and glass, textiles and leather, and finally plastic. The trick is to combine the basic lines well, to choose materials that match the basics. A mix of materials is important. As for colour, we can clearly see a trend towards blue. The 20's and 50's will crop up again in individual elements. Ornaments and flowers combined with clear plastic, transparent materials with heavy wood and leather, patchwork used in patterns together with a lot of glass and chrome, and Scandinavian wooden furniture in a restrained environment with linen and cotton - all that is possible. Accessories will provide important detail, light will create ambience. Interview: Christine Seizinger
m+a report Nr.1 / 2006 vom 13.02.2006
m+a report vom 13. Februar 2006