About the Project
In the summer of 2025, an imaginary tribe took shape in the Theaterstraat of the Chassé Theater in Breda: the Modern Ancient Forest Tribe. As an artist, I drew inspiration from the ancient symbolism of trees and forests. Rooted in personal memories, such as getting lost as a child in the forests of the Veluwe, surrounded by rustling leaves, shifting shadows, and mysterious silhouettes, I created a world where nature, myth, and contemporary rituals converged.
The tribe lived in and around the iconic tree tents designed by Dré Wapenaar for 'Het Bos van Hertzberger'. Around these tents, an installation unfolded consisting of light, sculptures, paintings, and moving projections that transformed the space into a living forest.
Workshops
During the residency, I collaborated with guest artists Daan van Bommel and Robin Rosbak to host workshops for children and young people. Participants created masks, flags, and costumes, artifacts of the tribe, drawing on themes of mythical forest creatures, symbolic markings, and imaginative storytelling. All works made during these sessions became part of the exhibition and later played a significant role in the closing ceremony.
From 18 July to 22 August, the installation was open to the public on the Entresol, halfway up the large red staircase in Chassé Theater. On several days, I worked on site, allowing visitors to see the evolving world of the tribe.
Closing Ceremony
On 22 August, the Modern Ancient Forest Tribe concluded its presence at the Chassé Theater. What would happen remained a secret until the last moment, but the ceremony became a remarkable gathering in which stories, artworks, and rituals came together in an unforgettable way.
