Dutch Delfts Blauw design: Blauw Festival

Geke Lensink, designer of the tableware set Blauw Festival:

Blauw Festival. That is the name of the tableware set that designer Geke Lensink made for Heinen Delft Blue. It turned out to be an exciting encounter between tough-minimalist design and traditional Delft Blue. The name was deliberately chosen: “I want to serve people a party on a plate”.

Geke Lensink’s designs are recognized as tough-looking objects with a minimalist character. She strives to fulfil the purpose of the object’s use to a maximum. Getting back to the essence, that is the challenge. Geke always starts from a concept or an idea. “As the name suggests, the theme of this tableware set is 'party'. All items that are on the table create this party together. It has got to do with the style and the place of the decorations on the tableware.”

The different tableware items are recognized by their clear lines and minimalist style, but also by a high foot, a clean design and the thickness of the material. “All of this together creates a tough and contemporary character. The decoration has a clear purpose in its design. The traditional ornaments and the geometric shapes give the tableware its character. The design doesn't only appeal to lovers of Delft Blue, but also people that love designer products. I think the result works. The products have a designer look, but they kept their Delft Blue techniques and features.”

Geke created Blauw Festival (Blue Festival) as the perfect carrier of a dish. As an ode to the meal. “There is a lot of energy and creativity in our food from nature and from the chef. With this tableware set I create a platform in which a meal is carried and presented. Once it is on the table, all the items of the set create a visual festivity together. Together these items form a lively landscape, created by the design. The Delft Blue ornaments create circles on the set table. And when the bowls, plates and cups get passed around those circles create a lively sense of merriment.”

Geke Lensink designs and creates furniture and tableware. She works for Brothers and Sons, GL editions, ProdInter and now also for Heinen Delft Blue.