Karel Op 't Eynde

I am Karel Op ‘t Eynde, a student and designer deeply committed to the transformative power of cultural engagement. I have completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Product Design at Luca School of Arts, where I have developed a strong academic foundation in design theory and practice. During my Master’s studies, my research focused on exploring the potential of queer kinship as a methodology within discursive design. Through this project, I documented and published the design process of three collaborative projects with artists and designers from my queer community. By doing so, I aimed to demonstrate the significance of queer joy and kinship in the creative process, showcasing my dedication to using creativity as a catalyst for social engagement. Political awareness has always been at the core of my practice. I firmly believe that design can challenge established norms and ignite critical discourse. By incorporating themes of current political relevance and diverse perspectives into my work, I strive to foster dialogue on pressing issues. A notable opportunity I had was curating the exhibition ‘Post-Industrial Crafts’ at the ADAM design museum in Brussels. This exhibition explored the innovative fusion of traditional craftsmanship through a post-industrial lens, pushing the boundaries of conventional craft in a contemporary context. This year, I had the privilege of serving as an in-house curator at Werkhuis Genk, an off-space dedicated to providing studio space for young students. In this role, I have contributed to shaping the exhibition space and utilizing both the main building and the glass window showcases to exhibit their work. Empowering young designers and artists is central to my vision of curatorial practice. As I embark on my journey at KASK, I am enthusiastic about expanding my knowledge and expertise. I am eager to push the boundaries of my curatorial perspective and search for the tools necessary to curate in a meaningful way.