ROTTERDAM, 22 August 2024 – Renowned Rotterdam-based artist Iwan Smit collaborates with Belgian brewery Duvel on a new series of limited edition glasses, designed to foster real-world connections in a digital age. The glasses feature unique designs inspired by common online dating questions and will be available from September.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, Rotterdam artist Iwan Smit has teamed up with Duvel to create a pair of limited edition glasses aimed at encouraging face-to-face conversations. The designs, which include motifs of mythical cats and bold dogs, are intended as icebreakers, drawing inspiration from a common question in the online dating scene: “Are you a dog or a cat person?”
Smit, known for his striking work, including pieces featured in the Boijmans van Beuningen museum, sought to create something that would bring people together in the real world. He explained, “While sitting in a pub for inspiration, I noticed many people around me engrossed in their phones. It led me to wonder whether we still ask each other these kinds of questions in person. The glass designs are meant to spark conversations, ideally over a beer.”
New Duvel Stamtafel at Bar Bokaal in Rotterdam
As part of this initiative, Duvel will be setting up special tables, known as “Stamtafels,” in various pubs across the Netherlands, including Rotterdam's Bar Bokaal. These tables will be equipped with phone boxes, conversation starters, and intimate lighting, creating an ideal setting for a first date, a chat with an old friend, or meeting new people. The intention behind these spaces is to provide a setting that facilitates genuine, offline connections, with the new designer glasses serving as a helpful tool in breaking the ice.
A dream realised for Iwan Smit
Smit has long admired Duvel’s tradition of collaborating with artists, a tradition that has seen contributions from creatives like Piet Parra and Franky Sticks. Smit shared his excitement about joining this prestigious list, especially as the colours and little devils in his design pay homage to Parra’s previous work. Smit’s journey with Duvel began years ago when he first encountered Parra’s glass design as a student at the Grafisch Lyceum. Now, he adds his own personal touch to this iconic collection.
Duvel’s commitment to accessible art
Since 2017, Duvel has provided a platform for artists to showcase their work through limited edition glass designs. The brewery's mission is to make art accessible to a wider audience, and these glasses, available in limited quantities, have become collectible items. Each year, Duvel offers artists complete creative freedom, ensuring that the resulting glasses reflect the unique style and personality of each designer.
Where to find a Duvel Stamtafel in Rotterdam: Bar Bokaal
In Rotterdam, Duvel has selected Bar Bokaal as the location for their Stamtafel. Situated in the heart of the city, Bar Bokaal is a vibrant spot known for its lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene. The Duvel Stamtafel here offers an inviting atmosphere, ideal for both locals and visitors who are looking to enjoy a meaningful conversation over a beer.
