Britte Koolen b. 1994

In a world dominated by speed, haste, and the constant drive for more, Britte Koolen seeks the opposite: the small and the subtle. Amid the overwhelming noise of daily life, she aims to create moments of silence and contemplation through her sculptures. Although the works may initially stand out because of their bright colors, their true power reveals itself only when the viewer takes the time to engage with them from all angles. This focus on slowing down is her response to the pressures of modern society. It is a gentle invitation to discover essence and find strength in a simplicity that is not always immediately visible.

In her practice, Britte seeks balance by slowing down her creative process. She continually asks herself questions: When is something in the right place? When should something be added or taken away? When does balance truly emerge? This approach requires focus and care, but also space to notice the small, fragile details that are easily overlooked. She aims to encourage the viewer to look closely and be surprised by these often-overlooked details.

Her inspiration comes from everyday life: architecture, floor plans, or sometimes simply a conversation. The making itself is important to her: the craft, the choice of materials, and the way each element is shaped. Precision, simplification, and abstraction play a central role, allowing form and meaning to gradually take shape.

When she begins working on a new sculpture, the place where it will ultimately be shown is leading. The space surrounding the work is just as important as the space it occupies. Before making, she visits the location to observe and investigate how both the sculpture and she herself can relate to the site.