Nathalie Van der Massen

Nathalie Van der Massen is a textile artist and designer whose work explores the intersection of architecture, textiles, and spatial design. Her artistic practice is rooted in a deep exploration of textiles and their ability to transcend traditional boundaries. Her art pieces are characterized by an investigation into the medium of weaving, where she pushes the materiality and conceptual possibilities of fabric. Through her work, Nathalie explores themes of transparency, rhythm, and texture, while playing with scale and the delicate balance between open and solid forms.

A defining aspect of Nathalie’s art is her ability to transform textiles into sculptural forms. By scaling up the weaving process, she creates large, immersive works that manipulate light and shadow, inviting viewers to engage with the material in new and unexpected ways. The open surfaces in her weavings allow light to pass through, creating a dynamic interaction between the artwork and its environment. This sense of movement is a key feature of her work, where patterns, textures, and negative space merge to create visual rhythms that shift depending on the viewer's perspective.

Nathalie’s choice of materials is another critical element of her practice. By using a combination of natural fibers—such as linen, wool, and paper, as well as repurposed technical yarns—she introduces a tactile richness to her pieces. The structural frames often reflect her affinity with architecture, juxtaposing softness with rigidity. Her work weaves delicate, open structures that contrast with the sturdy, crafted forms they inhabit.

Beyond decoration, Nathalie’s art pieces serve as meditations on the act of making itself. Her works explore the relationship between manual and digital processes, investigating how these two worlds can coexist and inform one another. By embracing both techniques, Nathalie’s art celebrates the tactile, human quality of weaving while reflecting on its place in the modern world. Her pieces evoke a sense of timelessness, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.