Creator Spotlight Interview
I did an interview with Morgan from Wescover, a platform to shop for unique, meaningfully made items, check it out below:
Based in the Netherlands, Rianne Aarts is the owner and creator behind the textile and fiber art studio, Teddy and Wool. Her dreamy macramé creations blur the line between bohemian simplicity and polished elegance and can be seen in homes around the world. We sat down with Rianne to learn about how she got her start, her inspiration, and more!
Can you tell us the story of how you started your business?
As a creative soul since a very young age, I have always had a deep connection with creativity, feeling a constant urge to craft something beautiful. My appreciation for textile art blossomed while studying at the Art Academy Minerva, where I began creating small macramé pieces and plant hangers in my spare time.
Afraid of not being able to make a living as an artist and never knowing what my little hobby would grow into, I made the decision to study law and got my bachelors in 2016.
Although a profession in law was intellectually stimulating, I soon realized that my true calling was in the world of creativity. I found a deep sense of fulfillment in working with textiles and crafting fiber art. The encouragement and positive response from friends and family ultimately inspired me to turn my passion into a full-time pursuit, by starting my art business Teddy and Wool.
What kind of products do you create?
I primarily create textile art in the form of wall art and art installations. The essence of my creations is a seamless blend of art and home decor.
What does your creation process look like?
My creation process begins with inspiration from various sources like nature, art, emotions and even dreams. I conceptualize the piece’s design, select materials, and decide on the colors, patterns and knots. During crafting, I often experiment and make adjustments to align the piece with my vision, ensuring quality and attention to detail. Throughout I aim to transform inspiration into a tangible work of art that reflects my style, and, in the case of a custom piece, a work of art that also aligns with the wishes of the client.
I mostly work with materials like cotton, hemp and wool to craft my textile artworks. I also love adding color, using different (dip-)dyeing techniques.
What are your most common requests for customizations from interior designers? What is your favorite thing about custom pieces?
The most frequent requests for customizations from trade clients typically revolve around specific color palettes, size adjustments, and thematic elements that align with their interior design projects. These customizations often aim to ensure that my artwork seamlessly integrates into the overall aesthetic of my clients’ spaces.
One of my favorite aspects of custom commissions is the opportunity to collaborate closely with clients to bring their unique vision to life. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how my work can become a meaningful and personalized part of someone’s home or space. The creative challenges that come with custom projects often push me to explore new techniques and ideas, enriching my artistic journey.
How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your work?
I prioritize sustainability by using recycled cotton and natural (non-toxic) dyes. I’m also committed to minimizing waste in my creations. For instance, I often repurpose scrap leftover pieces of cord or wool that would otherwise go unused, collecting them to incorporate into new pieces. This approach not only reduces waste but also adds unique textures and dimensions to my artwork.
What has been the most fulfilling part of running your company?
The most fulfilling part of running Teddy and Wool has been the opportunity to share my passion for art with others. Seeing my creations find their place in someone’s home, bringing joy, beauty, and a sense of connection, is incredibly rewarding. The journey of artistic exploration and continuous growth that comes with running T&W has also been personally fulfilling. It’s a journey that allows me to learn, adapt, and evolve both as an artist and as an individual, and that in itself is an immensely gratifying experience.
On top of that, running Teddy and Wool has given me the flexibility to manage my own time and spend more precious moments at home with my family, including my three wonderful kids. This balance between pursuing my artistic passion and being there for my family isn’t always easy, but it’s a true source of fulfillment in my life.
Do you have any exciting projects in the works you can tell us about?
I have a super cool project lined up to create art for roughly 100 rooms in a hotel in Saudi Arabia. I can’t share too much about it but I can’t wait to work on this!
Is there anything else people should know about?
For people feeling unsure about ordering a (custom) art piece, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Feel free to reach out anytime if you’re interested in discussing your desires for a custom piece. Whether it’s to enhance your home or office with textile art, I’m here to listen and collaborate with you. Your ideas are always welcome!
