Written by Taylor Bennett and Alia Ayoubi
Creativity is often perceived through the lens of personal experience, manifesting in various forms such as art, music, design, and photography. These mediums serve not only as reflections of our individual perspectives but also as avenues for self-expression. However, the journey of nurturing creativity can sometimes feel solitary, isolated from a sense of community. Enter The Creative Lab, a beacon of camaraderie and innovation in Amsterdam's creative landscape.
Founded in October 2022 by Roos Koks and Marijn Stouthamer, The Creative Lab transcends the conventional notion of a pop-up market. It stands as a vibrant showcase of local creatives, offering a platform where brands, artists, and enthusiastic consumers converge to celebrate each other's talents. What began as a modest endeavor evolved into a full-fledged project, driven by a passion to cultivate connections and foster collaboration within the city's creative ecosystem.
Roos and Marijn, initially driven by their own entrepreneurial aspirations, recognized a significant void in the creative community—a lack of cohesion and mutual support. Their chance encounter, born out of a shared passion for their respective ventures, ROOS Creative Lab and Marijn's Hoedjes Enzo, sparked a vision for a space where like-minded individuals could gather, exchange ideas, and engage with audiences in tangible ways.
The early days of The Creative Lab saw humble beginnings, with non-ticketed markets drawing primarily friends and family. However, the organic growth of the initiative soon caught the attention of a broader audience. By the third edition, a remarkable turnout of 800 attendees signaled a turning point. Brands clamored to be part of the movement, realizing the tangible impact of The Creative Lab on both participants and the broader creative community.
For Roos, the essence of The Creative Lab lies in forging meaningful connections within the creative realm. It's about transcending the confines of individual projects to create a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences. Meanwhile, Marijn finds fulfillment in witnessing the networking and collaborations that blossom at each event, likening their role to "creative cupids."
As The Creative Lab gained momentum, opportunities to expand arose. Larger venues accommodated growing numbers of vendors and attendees, further solidifying its position as a hub of creativity and innovation. Today, Roos, Marijn, and their dedicated intern, Eva Borro, operate from their own studio in Jordaan, a testament to their journey from grassroots beginnings to a prominent fixture in Amsterdam's creative scene.
Recently, at the 8th edition hosted at the former Mercedes garage, Studio Wieman, The Creative Lab showcased over 35 vendors alongside workshops and live music, epitomizing the dynamic energy of the event. Attendees were immersed in a myriad of experiences, from quirky accessories by Sonrisa Bling to hands-on rug tufting workshops by Shaggies Rugs Amsterdam.
Speaking with Noor from Shaggies Rugs Amsterdam, the ethos of The Creative Lab became evident. Beyond showcasing existing passions, the event serves as a gateway to discovery, offering accessible entry points into new creative endeavors.
In essence, The Creative Lab transcends its role as a marketplace; it's a catalyst for creativity, community, and collaboration. As it continues to evolve and inspire, it leaves an indelible mark on Amsterdam's creative landscape, nurturing talents and fostering connections that extend far beyond its physical boundaries.
Here’s our walk through of a few vendors we got to chat with at TCL #8!
Negative Feed, a Rotterdam-based brand, immediately captivated us with their cyanotype photo printing creations. Curated by Latvian artist Ričards Briška, their pieces blend upcycling, design, and photography into individual works of art. Vogue NL recognized them as "Talent[s] to Watch," praising their eco-friendly approach and passion for experimentation.
Stitching Stories, born from Carmen Luijt's graduation collection, caught our attention with their garments crafted from upcycled textiles. Each piece tells its own story, weaving cultural fables into the fabric. SS challenges norms with their unconventional materials, such as basketballs for corsets, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in fashion.
HAAS, a family-owned label with a rich history spanning four generations, parked prominently under a vintage Mercedes at the market. Their bags, made from deadstock fabrics, showcase impeccable craftsmanship and timeless design. HAAS embodies the essence of sustainability and tradition, offering a unique blend of heritage and contemporary style.
Homesick stood out with its inventive packaging and playful concept. Fabio, the creative mind behind the brand, redefines the idea of longing for home, exploring restlessness within one's comfort zone. With screen printing and graphic design, Homesick's small batch launches, including trendy t-shirts and hoodies, add a touch of creativity to everyday wear.
Vinny Bodywear, founded by Bryony and Betsan, offers a fresh perspective on swimwear and shapewear. Their versatile, supportive pieces seamlessly blend style and functionality, making you feel confident and free whether you're lounging at home or hitting the town. Vinny's innovative approach to design has quickly garnered a loyal following, capturing hearts and wardrobes alike.
Elevator, with its curated collection of vintage gems, embodies French chic and Dutch flair. Our team at TFB had a delightful experience exploring their offerings. Their pop-up events offer a hands-on, personal experience, where customers can try on pieces and receive styling tips. Elevator Vintage's timeless leather jackets and unique finds add a touch of nostalgia to any wardrobe.
Wakuli Coffee, known for its invigorating Nitro-Oat Lattes, fuels TCL attendees with energy and enthusiasm. Our team at TFB savored every sip of their delicious brews, powering through the event with renewed vigor. Their partnership with TCL reflects shared values and a commitment to collaboration. Gabriel, the mastermind behind the roastery, is excited about future endeavors with TCL, promising more coffee-fueled adventures ahead.
FUNDRAISER FOR STICHTING VLUCHTELING
Throughout the entire market, as well as online before the event took place, TCL promoted and gave attention to the ongoing conflict and genocide in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. With a fundraiser link in their instagram bio, those who donated during the month of April into early May entered themselves into a raffle in order to win TCL gift vouchers at their vendor of choice, even though the raffle is over TCL and TFB urge everyone to still educate themselves and donate to this cause. With 7 million refugees internally displaced, and the UN reporting that 300,000 people have fled since February alone – this does not even begin to cover the loss of human life that’s occurred, as well as the eco-violence being facilitated. Although it has received substantially less international media coverage than other ongoing conflicts, TCL wanted to use their market as an opportunity to contribute support and awareness to those suffering within it. By teaming up with Stichting Vluchteling for the initiative, creatives were not only assured that their gathering was contributing to a good cause, but also further enhanced the collective unity and comradeship present at the event itself (and in the subsequent weeks since the event). We need each other now more than ever – whether that be in pursuit of creating art that is meaningful to us, or in fighting for the lives and safety of others. TCL is not only a space in which communities are built, but where they are unified. That’s why TFB has also decided to re-share the fundraiser link for any of our readers who feel compelled to donate and continue the amazing work that Roos and Marijn started during the TCL market.
We hope to see all of you at the next edition of The Creative Labs Market, and please feel free to check out all of the amazing creatives featured in this article, as well as the full list of vendors present at the event!
All Vendor Credits / Socials:
Marijn’s Hoedjes Enzo - @marijnshoedjesenzo
Roos Creative Lab - @rooscreativelab
Farine - @rubentiimmer
Sanaa’s Kitchen - @sanaa_kitchen
Homesick Clothing - @homesickclothing_
Negative Feed - @negativefeed_
N. Ceylan Visuals - @framebynice
Perkulmade - @perkulmade
‘Olu ‘Olu - @oluolu_workshops
Slow Fashion Grails - @slowfashiongrails
Reinier - @reinier000
Sonrisa Bling - @sonrisabling
Rust - @rustjewels
Marly - @marlyrotterdam
Studio Fiep - @studio_fiep
Elevator Vintage - @Elevator.ams
Tree of Saba - @treeofsaba
Liquid Universe - @liquiduniverse_jewelry
Punn’s Art - @punnsart
Haas Amsterdam - @haasamsterdam
De Sierbrouwer - @desierbrouwer
Shaggies Workshop - @shaggies.rugs
Vinny Body - @vinnybodywear
Henri Bolt - @henribolt
Studio Floraison - @studiofloraison
Stitching Stories - @stitchingstories_
Usnea - @usnea_
Opposite Twice - @oppositetwicestudio
Vintage Troep - @vintage.troep
Le.Brux - @le.brux
Georgina Abreu - @anigroeg.ph
Elektra - @elektramsterdam
Daily Dose Ceramics - @dailydoseceramics
Aquarium Vintage Amsterdam - @aquariumamsterdamx
Lauritsa - @by.lauritsa
Eyewear Gems - @eyewear.gems
Ellyn Bouscasse - @ellyn_bsc
Studio Selles - @studioselles
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