The playful freedom of glassblowing
- Nienke's practice focuses on glass’s flexibility and potential
- Her work is infused with colour and movement
- Glasswork allows her to explore new forms and push creative boundaries
During her final year at the Royal Arts Academy in The Hague, Nienke Sikkema discovered the vivid world of glass. While designing an award for her graduation project, she met renowned artist Bernard Heesen, whose avant-garde approach to glassblowing inspired her deeply. Nienke was instantly captivated by the material’s fluidity and potential for colour. Today, her work reflects a playful and experimental spirit that embraces glass’s limitless possibilities. From her intricate Birds of Paradise to her whimsical, movement-filled creations, Nienke infuses each piece with joy and personal expression. "Glassblowing is a continuous learning journey where each object has an element of spontaneity and discovery," she says. In her creative process, Nienke embraces freedom over achieving perfection.
INTERVIEW
When I met Bernard Heesen, I was really intrigued by his unconventional approach. I saw that glass could be shaped in unexpected ways. Bernard did not aim for perfection but embraced glass’s natural flow. His freedom with glass opened my eyes to its vast creative potential.
I draw inspiration from everything I see around me, especially nature and the unique qualities of glass. Its flexibility – how it can be rolled, pulled, or stretched – fascinates me. Exploring the material’s endless possibilities deeply influences my creative process.
One of the highlights was working with my colleague Josja Schepman alongside Bernard Heesen in his exhibition, Glass From De Oude Hoorn, held at Museum Jan in Amstelveen in 2023. We had a lot of creative freedom in this project. I have also really enjoyed collaborating with various brands.
The best compliment I received was from a lady who told me that every day she looks at a piece she bought from me, and that it makes her smile. Knowing my work brings joy and happiness to people’s lives makes everything I do truly worthwhile.
