A Touch Of Tenderness

In response to growing polarization and the uncertain future of the cultural sector, we initiated A Touch of Tenderness. Together with eight other Rotterdam-based designers and artists, we created a collection of wool blankets—a universal symbol of warmth, care, and solidarity. More than objects, these blankets became a tangible statement: art and design as a unifying force.

The collection was designed in collaboration with Atelier van Lieshout, Gino Bud Hoiting, Lex Pott, Rabin Huissen, Richard Hutten, Studio Dumbar, Studio Spass, and Team Thursday. Each creator brought their distinct artistic vision, united by a shared palette of black, pink, and white—ensuring a cohesive yet diverse series. The result: a collection that embodies both individual expression and collective strength.

To ensure the highest quality, we partnered with EE Exclusives, a Dutch textile manufacturer with over a century of craftsmanship. Every blanket was meticulously woven from high-quality wool, balancing artistic integrity with functionality.

Beyond a design project, A Touch of Tenderness became a cultural movement. The blankets—objects of comfort—served as artistic canvases. The initiative culminated in an event at Brutus. This final event played a crucial role in the reception of the project, evolving from an exhibition into an interactive platform where the public could engage with the creators, purchase the blankets, thus reinforcing the project’s core values of unity and shared creativity.

All proceeds have been donated to Brutus’ cultural programming such as the exhibition ALLE ANDEREN by Ossip, making the initiative not only a statement of solidarity but also a direct contribution to the creative ecosystem of Rotterdam.

The project resonated deeply within Rotterdam’s artistic community, offering a meaningful response to societal division. By fostering collaboration between designers, artists, and audiences, A Touch of Tenderness strengthened cultural ties in a time of uncertainty.

Community response was overwhelmingly positive—the blankets sold out, the event received extensive local media attention, and the initiative sparked discussions on the role of art in social connection. Other cultural institutions have since expressed interest in similar projects, amplifying its impact beyond Rotterdam.

Executed on a modest budget, this initiative proved that design can do more than create—it can connect, support, and inspire. A Touch of Tenderness stands as a testament to the power of creativity in bringing people together.