Kees van Leeuwen

ned / eng

In my work I research human interactions within institutional architectural spaces . I like to show space as a ‘language’ which is universally revealed in certain types of buildings. I explore spaces which have no meaning without content and in which visitors can project their own ideas.

 

My work is also influenced by the sociological narratives that are projected into a physical site, thereby informing how its inhabitants will reflect on the site and its contents.

Parallel to my art, I am the Netherland’s leading Cold War nuclear bunker specialist. This interest stems from my experience of nuclear bunkers as possessing a distinctly subdued sensorial impact – they are tranquil spaces. These bunkers are ‘cavities’ hidden beneath bustling, oftentimes overwhelming metropoles.

However, though such bunkers were essentially constructed as sites of protection, these very concealed monuments radiate a paradoxical atmosphere. 

In more recent years, I also spent extensive periods travelling through Japan, researching the country’s traditions and philosophies of space, architecture and conservation. The notion of ‘Ma’ – architectural illusions, space that appears empty or without obvious function – is my main focus.

 

Illustrator & cartoonist

TRIK©

Cartoonist, animator, schilder

Janek Koza

programmer, composer & designer

Jaromir Mulders

Kunstenaar

Jan Kuhlemeier

Eva Kreuger

Artist

Marianne Lammersen

Graphic Design

Brr Brr

Portrait photography

Nienke Veneboer

Scenographer & Artist

Kevin Pieterse

Anne Mul

Candela Murillo

Journalist & designer

Chris Muyres

Sanne Kabalt

Artist

Meli Kuhn

Bolten Vioolbouw

Lex van der Meij

Judith Pool

Design & concept

Buro Blikgoed

visual artist

Beth Namenwirth

Kees van Leeuwen

Product designer

Ana López Santacruz

Designer

Noortje Boer

Kunstenaar

Gosse van der Leij

Illustrator / Animator

Johan Klungel

Artist and Researcher

Saskia Burggraaf