Chems (2024)
Chems explores the relationship between the world of science and the natural world through humanized glass laboratory objects. Iconic items such as the Erlenmeyer flask and beaker, transformed into vases, offer a profound exploration of the connection between knowledge and nature.
The juxtaposition of the structured world of science and the organic, unpredictable nature is central to Chems. By exploring these contrasts, I aim to unlock a dialogue about how our perception of beauty and functionality is influenced by the foundations of chemistry and the intriguing complexity of life itself.
‘Purging’ (2023)
'Purging' – a captivating exploration of upcycled plastic by Michaël van Craelingen. These sculptures, aptly named 'Purging White,' 'Purging Black,' 'Purging Orange,' and 'Purging Blue,' are born from the remnants of a plastic extruder's purging process. Michaël sculpts the melted plastic strings, arranging them into entangled yet harmonious forms, transforming industrial waste into captivating art pieces. Each sculpture is a testament to the beauty found in recycling, where discarded materials are reborn as intricate and thought-provoking artworks. 'Purging' invites viewers to contemplate the interplay between chaos and creation, elevating discarded plastic into a visual symphony of rebirth and creativity."
Unveiling Unseen Stories with "Neon Statements" (2023)
In the heart of Rotterdam, "Neon Statements" continues its transformative journey, now adorning random passersby with fluorescent green chains, affectionately known as the "Cuban Chain." Behind each person lies a unique story, a struggle, and hidden emotions, concealed from the casual observer. From those battling addiction to those teetering on the edge of society, from individuals experiencing loneliness to those wrestling with their identity, from street paper vendors hiding shame to those driven by high ambitions and motivation - this project aims to remind us all that everyone carries their own narrative and burdens. These chains serve as a poignant reminder, urging us to pause, empathize, and delve deeper into each person's journey, fostering tolerance and compassion in a world that often overlooks the stories woven into its fabric. "Neon Statements" invites you to embrace the art of understanding and celebrate the kaleidoscope of human experiences that surround us daily. Read more.
Neon Statements (2023)
In a contemporary fusion of art, surprise, and reflection, Van Craelingen has recently transformed the streets of Rotterdam with a striking and surprising art project called "Neon Statements." As a pop-up artwork, this project has captured the attention of passersby and sparked conversations.
This intriguing project involves the placement of striking fluorescent green chains - affectionately called the "Cuban Chain" - around the necks of the statues that make up the historical fabric of the city. But it goes beyond just a visual transformation. "Neon Statements" is a call for reflection on the hidden messages and stories that surround our cities. Read more (in Dutch)
Food soldiers (2017)
Contemporary work going up against fastfood. The original concept is a pop-up appearance of the traditional plastic toys solder equipped with fresh produce to stand up against cheap fastfood and an unhealthy lifestyle. The surprise presence of the plastic toy soldier should spark the interest and ignites contemplation of what the soldier is fighting against. And after closer inspection one would notice his harmless and healthy weapons and realise his mission. With the rise of social media the appearance is likely to be shared online and spread more awareness with a larger audience.
The soldier is carrying a leek as bazooka, a banana as a gun and tomatoes as grenades.
Fly private (2017)
A concept created pre-Covid that in hindsight could have been a safe options for traveling. Taking a standard unit load device (ULD) and convert it into a compact private cabin that can fit up to 4 people. Boarding and disembarking without any contact with other passengers and spend the duration of your flight in the privacy of your own family or traveling group.
Media center (2006)
A Mini-ITX format computer enclosure primarily made via aluminum extrusion. The enclosure was designed and developed in cooperation with Ed Annink from Ontwerpwerk. The aluminum parts create an optimal dissipation of heat generated by the CPU and graphics chip. The plastic cover is insulated to absorb noises and is finished with an anti-fingerprint piano lacker.
