The products and designs of Klaas Kuiken (1984) stem from a fascination with the creative process and its influence on the end result. Although Klaas is clearly a product designer, in his workshop he is more of a skilled craftsman and curious inventor. Unsurprisingly, the Discovery Channel TV programme ‘How it's made’ is one of Klaas's biggest sources of inspiration. This programme sparked his fascination with mass production and the question ‘what is the influence of mass production in relation to the identity of products’ became a central theme in his work.
Is it possible to use the production process of bulk products also to create deviant products? To what extent is the identity of a product influenced or determined by the production process? Klaas likes to explore how the two worlds of craftsmanship and (mass) production can be brought together. As a result, Klaas Kuiken's designs show a mix of unique characteristics and standardisation merged into one product. His view on materials, production techniques and manufacturing processes is refreshing, surprising and charming at the same time.
Klaas Kuiken has been nominated for the ‘New Material Award’ for the sustainable and innovative use of materials, and his work has been featured at numerous exhibitions in recent years, including Beijing Design Week, London Fashion Week, ICFF New York, Salone del Mobile Milan, Maison & Objet Paris.
