de Velde
Bokrijk, partner of the Henry van de Velde Awards
Bokrijk has been connected with the Henry van de Velde Awards as a partner for several years. What makes this partnership so important? And how is VAKlab committed to innovation, design and craftsmanship? We spoke about this with Igor Philtjens, President of Domein Bokrijk vzw and Deputy of Tourism and Heritage Limburg.
The last few years, Bokrijk has been on the rise in terms of image. What role does VAKlab play in this?
Igor Philtjens: Bokrijk tells the story of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Heritage is sometimes seen as a frozen past, but Bokrijk is very much in motion. We look to yesterday to explore the possibilities of tomorrow: from then, for tomorrow. Since 2014, Bokrijk has been working with curator Bart Lens on a future-oriented approach. A large-scale restoration project and initiatives such as the craftsmanship programme at Bokrijk Castle are preparing our heritage site for the next generations. We do this together with designers, makers and companies, including fashion designer Tim Van Steenbergen, chef Kobe Desramaults, furniture designer Frits Jeuris and journalist Veerle Windels. Their fresh perspective has helped set Bokrijk in motion.
We have opened the door to innovation, co-creation and creativity, while respecting our values. VAKlab plays an important role in this. As a lab for contemporary craftsmanship, it brings together traditional techniques, new ideas and creative makers. Through workshops, experiments and collaborations, we explore how the knowledge and skills of the past can inspire innovation, entrepreneurship and new ways of thinking. In this way, VAKlab proves that a museum can develop new ideas for tomorrow from the knowledge it collects. For us, ‘from then, for tomorrow’ is more than a slogan: it is how we let heritage speak in the present and give meaning to the future.
Why do you support the Henry van de Velde Awards?
Igor Philtjens: In recent years, we have reinvented ourselves and are giving a contemporary and innovative interpretation to craftsmanship. We do this by building bridges: between the past, present and future, between domains and disciplines, and between craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. That’s why VAKlab supports the Henry van de Velde Awards. These awards highlight the importance of innovation, design and craftsmanship in Flanders, which is closely aligned with VAKlab’s mission.
By supporting these awards, VAKlab shows its commitment to promoting craftsmanship that is not only traditional, but also innovative. This is in line with VAKlab’s ambition to connect craftsmanship with contemporary design trends.
“In recent years, we have opened the door to innovation, co-creation and creativity, without losing respect for our values.”
What was the idea that sparked the BKRK Award you organise every year?
Igor Philtjens: The BKRK Award is an important part of our journey. It aims to challenge, support and guide creative talents and craftspeople on their path to entrepreneurship. The 2026 theme is ‘fibres’. VAKlab calls on enterprising creatives to approach craftsmanship from the present, building on techniques from the past while keeping an eye on innovation and relevance.
Although there is no cash prize attached, the individual guidance we offer our candidates is invaluable. VAKlab offers those selected not only a network, but also one-on-one coaching. Flanders District of Creativity has meanwhile become a fixture on the jury.
