Yanthe

van Nek

exploring collective imagination

About me

Welcome to My World of Creativity and Connection

I’m Yanthe, an artist, installation builder, and community collaborator originally from the Netherlands, now based in Northern Jutland, Denmark. For over a decade, my work has centered around creating spaces where stories unfold, people connect, and creativity takes unexpected turns. My projects are participatory journeys—whether it’s sculpting ideas into reality or blending diverse voices into shared experiences.

    My Artistic Philosophy

    Inspired by philosopher K.T. Jaspers’ belief that “we have to want because we don’t know,” I approach my work as an exploration of the unknown and imperfect. Every project is an invitation to join me in discovering what happens when art, research, and community meet. I believe in the magic of collaboration—sparking creativity where courage and vulnerability intertwine.

      From the Netherlands to Denmark

      My artistic roots began in the Netherlands, where I was fortunate to gain recognition for projects that brought people together. Winning two art awards underscored the value of shared exploration in my work. Now in Denmark, I’m embracing the challenge of building new networks and connecting with communities in Jutland. Each project feels like starting anew, and I find inspiration in the energy and resilience of this journey.

        What Drives Me

        • Collaboration: My work thrives on dialogue—with people, spaces, and ideas.

        • Exploration: I’m drawn to gaps and intersections in society—places where history, beliefs, and corporate landscapes collide with human stories.

        • Sustainability: Creating art that grows organically and continues without me is my ultimate goal.

        Highlights from My Work

        • Heartbeat of the World: Recording and weaving heartbeats into an intimate sound installation.

        • On Order and Chaos: Exploring self-organization through a live research project with tractors.

        • Everdina, Nellie & the Caravan: A community project bringing people together to craft and share new stories.

        • I am Esme and I Live at IKEA: A playful, thought-provoking dialogue on consumer culture and identity.

        Join the Journey

        I’d love to connect with you—whether it’s to collaborate, discuss ideas, or simply share in the adventure of creativity. Together, we can shape new stories and uncover the beauty of the unexpected. Let’s create something meaningful.

        Education

        Hanze University Groningen ART ACADEMY Minerva (2012-2016)
        HKU Introductionary curriculum Fine Art- Design (2011-2012)
        Vrije Universiteit propaedeutic year English and Geography

        Awards & Recognition

        Long Live Art Price – Co winner, 2018

        Klaas Dijkstra Academy Award, 2016


        Selected Publications

         “A New Symbol for Meeden” – this participatory community project was recently featured in a publication by the University of Groningen (2022).

        This work explored the role of local symbolism and collective storytelling in a rural Dutch village. A symbol created with and by the community became a catalyst for shared reflection, connecting generations and perspectives.

        Exhibitions

        My work has been shown in  galleries, and festivals, including CLASHXXL Art & Music Festival where I presented on Order & Chaos, Gallery K38 Roden, with the participatory installation Damn, it ended up being the geraniums after all, and Noorderzon Performing Arts Festival Groningen Noorderzon with the project Everdina, Nellie & the Caravan