Maarten Baas, a visionary Dutch designer, has carved out a unique niche in the world of contemporary design with his innovative approach and playful reinterpretation of traditional craftsmanship. Central to his body of work are the iconic Grandfather clocks, which have garnered international acclaim for their whimsical yet thought-provoking design.
Born in 1978 in Arnsberg, Germany, Maarten Baas studied at the Design Academy Eindhoven, where he graduated in 2002 with his groundbreaking project, "Smoke." This collection, which featured charred furniture pieces, catapulted Baas into the spotlight, earning him widespread recognition for his unconventional approach to design.
The Grandfather clocks, introduced in 2009 as part of his "Real Time" series, represent a bold departure from convention, blending elements of sculpture, theater, and design to create objects that defy categorization. Each clock is meticulously crafted from wood and finished with a layer of vibrant, hand-painted resin, resulting in a striking juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary aesthetics.
What sets Baas's Grandfather clocks apart is not only their visual appeal but also the narrative they embody. By subverting the familiar form of the classic timepiece, Baas invites viewers to reconsider their relationship with time and tradition, prompting reflection on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of memory and history.
More on Maarten Baas: https://maartenbaas.com/
