Willem van Hooff's main inspiration comes from humanity itself: mostly historical traditions, different cultures and the vast contrast of modern-day society.

Willem van Hooff is a hands-on working designer/artist based in Eindhoven.

In my work, I seek new potentials in storytelling or materiality. My main inspiration comes from humanity itself: mostly historical traditions, different cultures and the vast contrast of modern-day society.

I didn’t do enough

Why do we, as humans, doubt ourselves? Why is it never good enough? I know many people can hear this voice in the back of their heads; I hear them too. As I make, I often hear this voice when something is finished and when other people can critique my creation. In this piece, I already wanted to express my own insecure feelings. I chose to create a trophy which is a “happy” object, something to celebrate with. For me, this trophy is celebrating the moment I started to accept that little demon in the back of my head.

Material: Glazed earthenware
Size: 50cm high, up to 50cm wide

Core Vessels

Core is a series of vessels. Inspired by prehistoric African building techniques. I have been fascinated by vessels they have such a straightforward and effortless function. Their function is to hold and transport water, but it has also been a canvas for humanity to express themselves.

When I started expressing myself through this object, a new form of language emerged. I wanted to challenge the contour of vessels by bringing them out of balance. Each vessel contains a hidden chamber that brings the vessels back into balance by the weight of the water they carry.