Experience with Stroomversneller: multimedia artist Daphne van de Velde

Daphne van de Velde, based in Arnhem, combines her background in contemporary dance with her passion for photography. As a multimedia artist, she explores the boundaries of photography, performance, and sculpture, with a focus on movement and the body. We spoke with her about her work, how she’s doing now, and what the support from Stroomversneller has meant to her.

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got into art?

“I originally started out as a dancer, but in the end I found it too nerve-wracking to stay in that world. My shyness often held me back from accepting invitations to exhibitions, for example. For that reason, I decided to study photography at the Fotoacademie in Amsterdam. It was a way to push myself out of my shell—and it worked: I graduated with honors! My background as a dancer still comes through in my work. I use my body a lot in my art, as a kind of frozen moment of dance movements that I transform into sculptures.”

What do you see as the power of photography and sculpture in your work?

“Photography is my starting point, but it’s the three-dimensional aspect that sets me apart. To me, a two-dimensional image often feels too limiting. By intervening in the two-dimensional plane and adding sculptural elements, I aim to go beneath the surface. By making it three-dimensional, the viewer can move around the work and discover more. My work is more of a performance than a still image, with movement over time as a key theme.”

How did you first come across Stroomversneller?

“A colleague gave me a tip during a two-artist exhibition. I was already working on *Of me and you*, but due to a lack of resources, I couldn’t finish it. Stroomversneller me the boost I needed to keep going without having to put other projects on hold.”

Can you tell us a little about *Of Me and You* and how the project has evolved?

“In *Of Me and You*, I explored the skin as a betrayer of emotions—such as blushing or sweating—reactions you can’t control and that reveal what’s going on inside. The theme of vulnerability has played a role throughout my entire life. In my work, I push those boundaries, sometimes even literally by working nude. The idea that you can’t hide what you’re feeling fascinates me.”

What was your experience like working with Cultuur Academy Stroomversneller?

“Very positive! Even though I was nervous, I decided to go to one of the social gatherings anyway. It was nice to meet other artists who are also struggling with challenges—it makes you feel less alone. The atmosphere was warm and personal, and the conversations with the organizers were always approachable and friendly.”

How's your work going these days?

"Things are moving very quickly. My work is now being exhibited in museums and galleries abroad, such as in Italy and Belgium, where artists are often treated with more respect than I sometimes experience here. It’s incredibly motivating to see that my work is appreciated internationally, and that really gives me the courage to keep going."

Do you have any tips for other artists who want to apply to Stroomversneller?

“Don’t be afraid to believe you’re worthy of applying. Clearly state what you need, and don’t give up! It can be tough and make you feel insecure, but the most important thing is to keep going.”

Daphne van de Velde’s work is currently on view in the exhibitions *Fear* at the Inarttendu Gallery at the Arte Alta Foundation in the Museo La Collegiata dei Pietro e Orso in Aosta, Italy (August 29–September 22, 2024), and *Les Liaisons Désireuses* at d’Ursel Castle in the province of Antwerp, Belgium (May 26 through October 13, 2024). Previously, she has exhibited at venues including “Het Uur Blauw” at the Black Swan Gallery in Bruges and “Body Talk” at the Stedelijk Museum Vianen.

Visit www.daphnevandevelde.nl for more information.

About Stroomversneller

Stroomversneller a grant program that supports new initiatives in their artistic development by giving them room to experiment. The goal is to help these initiatives gain momentum in an accessible way, without too many restrictions or obligations.

Click here for more information about Stroomversneller.