Arjan van Arendonk's work is characterised by the use of printed fabrics as a background for his paintings. His belief that art is ‘nearby’/’close at hand’ often guides his approach, in which he transforms everyday products into works of art. Van Arendonk focuses on very specific use of materials. He has developed a mixed technique in which he combines acrylic paint with coloured silicone and embroidered birds.
In 2009, Van Arendonk designed 'The Four Seasons', a series of curtains for the Verkadefabriek cultural centre in 's-Hertogenbosch. Hanging in two of the centre’s rooms, the woven fabric depicts the four seasons and their characteristic elements. Twelve different birds are embroidered on the fabric. In one room, six of the birds have been individually framed and hung on the wall. In the other room, the six remaining birds are attached to the wall. Because the rooms serve as both a cinema and more intimate meeting venue, the curtains can be moved to create different spaces with good acoustics.
Yearbook Textiellab, 2009
