state of fashion

Ties That Bind

For Ties That Bind (2023, Arnhem), I was commissioned by State of Fashion to create illustrated reports of three ateliers set up by Bureau Ruimtekoers Arnhem.

I entered each atelier with my sketchbook, looking, listening and drawing. I captured the people, the clothes, the making and the energy in the room — turning these encounters into a series of drawings.

At City at Home in Arnhem-Zuid, designer Zyanya Keizer brought together women from around the world, connected through craft and a shared need for a safe and nurturing space. I drew the encounters, the hands at work, the conversations and the sense of connection taking shape.

Atelier Teddy’s, led by Ruben Jurriën, took fashion somewhere more playful. Students created new outfits from teddy bears and existing garments, cutting, combining and transforming what was already there.

Atelier Batik brought together the Indo community and the designers of Guave. This atelier also touched something personal: my own father is Javanese, so my Javanese heritage became part of the work. I drew from that connection while observing how heritage, craft and fashion came together in the room.

These drawings are not just a record of what happened. They are my take on the people, the energy and the stories I encountered along the way.

Right:

City at Home- impression of Arnhem Zuid

Below:

Atelier Teddy  

Atelier City at Home

Atelier Batik