For a set of napkins and a tablecloth originally commissioned by the TextielMuseum in 2003, Van Eijk & Van der Lubbe gave traditional Dutch prints a modern twist by adding details from contemporary life.
These napkins from 2009 are inspired by old Delft blue tiles. The traditional scenes are linked with (everyday) modern situations – not just the positive ones but also the less rosy reality. The series builds on the earlier prints from 2003. By continually updating the napkins with new layers, an image emerges of today’s constant urge to innovate.
The historic prints are enriched with striking details from modern life. For example, a playing child is given a gun in one image, while Rotterdam’s Erasmus Bridge is inserted into another. The 2003 originals gain a new layer with the addition of images referencing events from 2009. Besides the gun, the playing child is also handed the controller of a Wii game console. Next to the Erasmus Bridge, the most recent high-rise building on Rotterdam’s skyline now appears. These are all temporary symbols, which may have little meaning in 20 years, but that is precisely the point. By continually updating the napkins with new layers, an image emerges of our increasingly throwaway society.
The new elements were added using the TextielLab’s embroidery and laser machines. A narrow strip of woven fabric with the text 'v Eijk 2009 vd Lubbe' was stitched on each napkin. The original images were updated using embroidery (such as a poker card), laser engraving (solar panels) and foil printing. The additions to the tablecloth are both embroidered (for sale sign) and engraved.
Niels van Eijk (1970) and Miriam van der Lubbe (1972) both attended the Design Academy Eindhoven. Van der Lubbe then went on to study at the Sandberg Institute in Amsterdam. After graduating, the pair established Van Eijk & Van der Lubbe and produced numerous projects, ranging from autonomous work to the complete interior design of the Muziekgebouw Eindhoven. In 2011, they launched USUALS, their own product design label. They also co-founded Dutch Design Week in Eindhoven. As a design duo, they aim to create experiences that fascinate, surprise and broaden the mind.
