Inside Janien Prummel's Studio

What is your preferred material to work with?
I really enjoy working with paper and textiles. Additionally, I love materials that show signs of time, are discolored, or worn out, with stains or frayed edges. All these elements come together beautifully in old books. I prefer working with books that have fabric covers, but you can also find children's books or bound magazines in my collection. I deconstruct them and reuse almost all elements to create abstract compositions.

Does your studio influence the work you create?
I think the atmosphere of my home suits my work and influences it. Light is important in this regard: the light in my home is delightful. I studied sculpture at the academy. My studio is not a place for carving stone or working with plaster, or creating very large works. In recent years, I haven't felt the need for that. I've mostly worked in sketchbooks. However, now I feel a need for expansion. I have already taken over a second space in my home, my old office. Sometimes I still feel like I don't have enough space. I would like to be able to display and keep more works visible, and work on a larger scale.

What does your dream studio look like?
As beautiful as my apartment and studio are, my dream studio is more in nature, where I have a view of fields and trees, where I can step outside easily, with lots of light, space, and height. Your work and your studio evolve with your life. The time during COVID-19 has made me realize how much I miss nature and how I am inspired by the peace and quiet. So that will be the next step for me.