material is the base
traceability is the way
extraordinarity is the goal

Material is the base. It fascinates me when designers allow their design process to be guided by the properties of the material they work with. By using the qualities, but also by accepting imperfections and limitations, creative and beautiful new inventions arise. This gives the material a decisive role in the end result.

Designers who work in this way create innovative products that are surprising and at the same time feel familiar. The traceability of the material, a tradition or technique makes the objects recognizable. The creativity of the designer makes it intriguing for the user.

There are plenty of ordinary products, I strive for extraordinarity. I try to bring these objects together in the collection of Matter of Material. Each product has been personally selected by me. Ultimately it is a matter of feeling. That click can take place anywhere: during a visit abroad, a graduation show or via social media. In this way I composed a collection from hand-painted oyster shells to the iconic Big-white pot by Hella Jongerius and from lamps made of flax rope to coffee cups made of coffee. They are objects that are functional so that they can be integrated into everyday life. However, their functionality is not the most important. The experience matters more. They make life that little bit more special. You want to have them around you and talk about them. They have been designed with attention by the maker and that is anchored in the core of the product. It makes the objects so surprising and extraordinary.

The Matter of Material website divides the products in the menu by material. By clicking on ceramics, glass, wood or plastic you will be guided through innovative use of materials, history and beauty.

Ultimately the objects bring me pleasure and I really like to share that. They are tangible joy makers for yourself or for someone else as an extraordinary gift.

Enjoy.

Arne Leliveld

curator and founder