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In a significant announcement from Singapore, Jongjin Park was recently honored with the prestigious Loewe Foundation's 2026 Craft Prize. His winning artwork, titled 'Strata of Illusion,' impressed a distinguished panel of judges, comprising luminaries from the fields of design, architecture, art criticism, and museum curation, including renowned figures such as Frida Escobedo and Patricia Urquiola, alongside Loewe's creative directors, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. This recognition highlights Park's innovative spirit and mastery of his craft.

Park's 'Strata of Illusion' is a remarkable ceramic sculpture that challenges traditional perceptions of the medium. The piece is constructed from thousands of intricately layered paper sheets, each coated with colored porcelain slip, then meticulously arranged into a rectilinear form. The intense heat of the kiln subsequently transforms this structure into a chair-like shape, creating a dynamic interplay between order and chaos, stability and malleability. The jury praised Park's work for its ability to redefine ceramic art, noting its sculptural presence that seamlessly integrates elements reminiscent of glassblowing and bookbinding, thereby showcasing a rich dialogue across different craft traditions.

Beyond the top honor, the jury also recognized two additional artists for their exceptional contributions. The Ghanaian collective Baba Tree Master Weavers, in collaboration with Spanish artist Álvaro Catalán de Ocón, received a special mention for their grand-scale, cooperatively woven tapestry, 'Frafra Tapestry.' Italian artist Graziano Visintin was also acknowledged for his 2025 work, 'Collier,' a pair of exquisite necklaces crafted from delicate gold cubes and adorned with the ancient niello metalworking technique. These awards underscore the Loewe Foundation's commitment to celebrating diverse artistic expressions and the enduring potential of craftsmanship. The Loewe Foundation established this award in 2016 to champion innovation and artistic merit in contemporary craft, reflecting the brand's own deep heritage in artisanal practices that spans nearly two centuries. The works of all 30 finalists will be displayed at the National Gallery Singapore, offering a compelling showcase of modern craft's boundless possibilities.

The pursuit of artistic excellence and innovative craftsmanship enriches our cultural landscape, pushing the boundaries of creativity and inspiring a deeper appreciation for human ingenuity. Through such initiatives, traditional crafts are revitalized, inviting new interpretations and fostering a vibrant future for artists worldwide.

Love's Journey: From Chance Encounter to Amsterdam Nuptials

The Genesis of a Partnership: A Chance Meeting and Deepening Connection

Twenty-five years ago, a casual encounter at a hometown bar in Holland brought Marieke Meulendijks and Maickel Weyers together. Their initial meeting, a simple closing of an evening, quickly blossomed into something profound. Marieke fondly recalls how their dinner a few days later cemented their bond: "Conversations flowed effortlessly, laughter was abundant, and a comfortable ease settled between us." She emphasizes the uniqueness of their shared perspective, a foundation that allowed their relationship to flourish, eventually leading them to build a family and co-found the esteemed fashion label, Róhe.

A Thoughtful Proposal and the Evolution of a Family

Approximately twelve years into their relationship, during a vacation in Oman, Maickel surprised Marieke with a proposal. Marieke recounts the unexpected moment, highlighting the sentimental value of the vintage Art Deco ring Maickel had carefully chosen. Rather than rushing into marriage, the couple prioritized nurturing their growing family and establishing their business, welcoming two children and successfully launching Róhe. Their journey underscored a belief in perfect timing, ultimately leading them to their wedding day in Amsterdam on September 13, 2025.

A Visionary Celebration: Five Venues, One Love Story

Marieke and Maickel's wedding was a meticulously planned affair, designed to narrate their shared life through a multi-venue experience across Amsterdam. "We wanted our wedding to reflect our life together," Marieke explains, underscoring their desire to guide guests through significant locations. The celebration, orchestrated with the help of wedding planner With Lotte, featured personalized details, from a curated music playlist evoking cherished memories to artistic decor sourced from their personal collection. The festivities began with an intimate boat tour of Amsterdam's canals, followed by an evening at their favorite cafe, Libertine. The main wedding day progressed from a ceremony at the historic Keizersgracht church to cocktails at Huis de Vicq (Róhe's headquarters), a dinner reception in a Brutalist church, and finally, dancing at a vibrant industrial space.

Crafted Elegance: Custom Designs and Meaningful Adornments

Naturally, the co-founders of Róhe donned custom designs from their own label for the wedding weekend. Maickel opted for a black silk-wool pankou closure suit, while Marieke chose an ivory duchesse satin ensemble, complemented by a sculptural raw silk hat. The design process proved so inspiring that it led to the launch of Róhe's inaugural wedding capsule collection. Marieke's wedding day looks were a sartorial journey in themselves, with four different outfits, each a personal reflection of her passion for tailoring and her life's narrative. Adding another layer of sentimentality, Marieke wore three wedding rings from Sophie Bille Brahe, each representing the first letter of her husband's and their twins' names, destined to be passed down to her children on their eighteenth birthdays.

A Day of Heartfelt Moments: Ceremony and Speeches

The wedding day commenced with guests, elegantly dressed in black, gathering at the Keizersgracht church. The moment Marieke walked down the aisle to "Spring 1" by Vivaldi, accompanied by her father and children, to meet Maickel, who had not seen her all day, was particularly poignant. Her best friend of three decades officiated the ceremony, imbuing the proceedings with deep personal significance. Emotional speeches from close friends and Maickel's brother brought both laughter and warmth, but the highlight was their daughter, Teddy, singing, a moment the couple cherishes forever.

The Róhe Atelier Reception: Dutch Delights and Garden Inspirations

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests journeyed to Huis de Vicq, the Róhe offices, a historic 1670 mansion nestled in the picturesque "Golden Bend" of Amsterdam's canal belt. This special location, where their passion translates into their work, was transformed for the cocktail hour, featuring three violinists and an array of "Dutch delights." The wedding cake, artfully inspired by the property's lush gardens, was another central element of the reception.

An Enchanting Evening: Brutalist Architecture and Personal Touches

Guests were then transported to De Thomas, a Brutalist church, for the dinner reception. The venue, adorned with long tables and candlelight, provided a striking backdrop for an evening filled with heartfelt moments. Marieke and Maickel personally penned letters for each guest, delivering them during dinner. The night unfolded with speeches and a lively saxophonist, prompting guests to dance on their chairs. Disco buses then carried the party to its final destination: a raw industrial space where a DJ and dancers awaited, ensuring the celebration continued late into the night.

A Timeless Celebration: Love, Life, and Friendship

Reflecting on their journey, Marieke and Maickel acknowledge that celebrating their marriage after 25 years of togetherness offers a different perspective than marrying at a younger age. For them, the wedding was more than just a declaration of love; it was a profound celebration of a quarter-century of shared love, life, and an unbreakable friendship.