Mae Engelgeer
Mae Engelgeer
Abstract Notes
‘Abstract Notes’ is a monumental textile art wall by Mae Engelgeer for the renovated foyers of the Grote Zaal in TivoliVredenburg, Utrecht. The work serves as the finishing touch to the renovation by architectural collective deMunnik–deJong–Steinhauser and spans over 600 m² (with a total of 700 m² of woven surface) across two floors. The textile wall envelops and defines the foyers, softening the architecture while enhancing wayfinding and spatial cohesion within the building.
The design is deeply rooted in the architecture of Herman Hertzberger. Engelgeer drew inspiration from his sketchbook collages ‘Notations’ and the graphic grid of TivoliVredenburg, translating these into a layered textile composition. The wall was approached as a large canvas where repeating columns, tilts and rhythms converge into an abstract visual language. Subtle references to the original interior are included, such as embroidered appliqués based on Hertzberger’s sketches and tufted elements quoting Joost van Roojen’s 1970s watercolours. The result is a collage that never reads in a single glance, revealing a different composition from each perspective, like a musical piece with variations.
The work marks a milestone in sustainable textile design within the TextielLab. For the first time on this scale, weaving was done with both warp and weft made from recycled, flame-retardant yarns. A recycled polyester warp was specially developed, along with a weft of 100% recycled monofilament produced from PET bottles collected in the Benelux. These material choices influenced not only the technical process but also the aesthetic outcome.
Photography by N/J Studio and Patty van den Elshout, commissioned by the TextielMuseum
VIVID Meadow
‘VIVID Meadow’ is a Jacquard-woven wall hanging by Mae Engelgeer. The work is built from multiple layers, with floating yarns revealing subtle colour gradations beneath a top layer of paper yarns. Its graphic weave structure is inspired by Japanese tatami flooring, where ribbed structures and rhythm create a strong visual and tactile presence.
For Rademakers Gallery Amsterdam, the work was developed in various formats and colourways, including a new Sage Green variant. ‘VIVID Meadow’ functions not only as a textile artwork but also as an acoustic wall panel.
