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Explore these innovative projects at the Sustainable Innovations Forum in the Keyhouse in Hall 7
Studio Tjeerd Veenhoven (STV) is dedicated to material research and value chain design with a focus on sustainability. Graduating from the Art Academy in Arnhem in 2000, Tjeerd transitioned from product design to exploring sustainable value chains. Over the past 15 years, he has collaborated with numerous partners to create innovative solutions that address complex social issues related to sustainability. He acknowledges the urgent need for sustainable practices, particularly within the fashion industry.
Tjeerd’s “Mycelium 2D Printing” explores the potential of mycelium, a natural material obtained from mushrooms, which could be crucial for the transition towards more sustainable consumption. STV began researching mycelium four years ago, focusing on controlled growth without specific applications. Recently, they developed a printer that places inoculated substrates to cultivate mycelium into white dots, forming a graphical mycelium print. This speculative research envisions replacing PVC banners at cultural festivals with mycelium-printed canvas, which can be reused and reprinted without chemicals.
Another significant lead is the development of sustainable textiles from oyster mushroom mycelium. For three years, STV has investigated the potential applications of oyster mushroom waste, creating textiles from thinly sliced mushroom bases. His research revealed the mycelium’s capacity for continued growth from the mushroom foot after harvest. By allowing the material to grow back together in controlled conditions, a unique textile-like material is produced.
»In our transition to a sustainable fashion value chain, we need wild ideas that shake up, that offer a fresh perspective on raw materials, manufacturing, design and use. Mycelium based textiles are one of the more speculative routes – but with great potential.«
Tjeerd Veenhoven
Modularity is not a new concept. For decades, it has shaped architecture, furniture and industrial design. Applying it to soft textiles, however, opens up an entirely new discussion.
Creativity and curiosity have always been our driving force. Our work evolves through prototypes—never finished, always raising new questions about materials, processes, and possibilities.
Both the fashion and textile industry often celebrates creativity. Yet many of the industry’s creative decisions are made long before a designer ever begins designing. Colour being one of them. The thing is, by the time a designer selects yarn, someone else has already determined the available colours, sequences and combinations. Choice exists, but only within boundaries.
“Through hands-on experimentation, I explore the potential of new surfaces and alternative forms of leather, aiming to reconnect human life with the natural world as an interconnected fabric.”
