Interview with Elise Eekhout

My design studio focuses on creating thoughtful, visually striking work that bridges communication and art. Whether working on branding, editorial design, or illustrations, I aim to create designs that resonate emotionally while conveying clear messages. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with government agencies, museums, and private clients, always tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs.

For me, design is a form of problem-solving combined with storytelling. It’s about crafting visuals that communicate effectively while evoking emotion. Good design finds harmony between function and aesthetics, creating connections between people and ideas.

I love projects that challenge me to think conceptually, like visual identities or editorial designs where I can blend typography and imagery. I’m particularly drawn to designs with a narrative element, as they allow me to connect with the audience on a deeper level.

My most favorite design is a series of continuous line drawings I created for a governmental project. I love how the simplicity of a single line can convey such depth and meaning. This design became a personal favorite because it challenged me to explore the power of minimalism and abstraction while still telling a clear story. The project allowed me to experiment with the intersection of functionality and artistic expression, showing that design can be both aesthetically compelling and effective in conveying complex ideas. The simplicity and elegance of the work are something I really connect with.

The first thing I designed for a company was a logo and corporate brand style for my uncles, who started a landscape design company. I created this when I was 17 years old. Since then, I’ve continued to work with them on multiple projects, and our collaboration has grown over the years.

As a designer, I really enjoy working with digital platforms, especially Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign. These tools allow me to fully realize my creative ideas and refine my designs. I also appreciate the versatility of a sketchbook as a traditional medium—sometimes sketching by hand provides a clarity and flow that digital tools can’t match. For my art, I enjoy experimenting with different materials like gold and silver leaf, which add a dynamic quality to my pieces and make them respond to light in unique ways.

I feel the most creative when I have a mix of inspiration and time to let my thoughts wander. For me, creativity often strikes when I'm not forcing it—whether that’s during quiet moments in nature, or when I’m working on something completely unrelated to design, like reading or simply observing the world around me. I also find that when I allow myself to experiment without the pressure of deadlines, I am able to explore new ideas and techniques that lead to unexpected results.

I pay close attention to composition, typography, and the overall visual hierarchy. For me, every element must serve a purpose, ensuring clarity and balance. I also focus on the emotional tone of the design, considering how colors, shapes, and textures will be perceived.

Designing often feels like a mix of curiosity, excitement, and flow. There’s a sense of discovery as I explore ideas, and a deep satisfaction when elements start coming together seamlessly.

When a design comes to life—whether it’s a printed piece or a digital experience—I feel pride and fulfillment. Seeing it resonate with others, especially the client or audience, is incredibly rewarding.

A successful design communicates its message clearly while engaging the audience on an emotional level. It’s functional, aesthetically pleasing, and leaves a lasting impression.

I first assess clarity and functionality: does the design serve its purpose effectively? Then, I look at the aesthetics—composition, balance, and attention to detail. A strong design strikes a balance between the two.

Designers have a responsibility to create work that is not only visually appealing but also ethical and sustainable. This means being mindful of materials, production methods, and the messages we communicate. Designers can influence perceptions and behaviors, so it’s essential to approach our work with integrity and awareness.

The design field is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary, blending technology, art, and science. With advances in AI and immersive technologies, designers are exploring new ways to create interactive and personalized experiences. Sustainability and inclusivity are also shaping the future of design, pushing us to think beyond aesthetics to create meaningful, impactful work.

My last exhibition is currently taking place in Gouda (Unit4Art), Netherlands, and will run until the end of January 2025. It’s been a great experience connecting with new audiences and showcasing my work. My next exhibition is also in January 2025 in the Hague (Haagse Kunstkring), Netherlands. For the remainder of the year, I have not yet planned any exhibitions, but I’m looking forward to new opportunities that may arise.

My inspiration often comes from nature, literature, and everyday life. I’m fascinated by patterns, textures, and the play of light and shadow. I also find inspiration in books, art exhibitions, and conversations with other creatives. Keeping a sketchbook and taking time to reflect are essential parts of my process.

My design style is clean, conceptual, and often narrative-driven. I gravitate toward minimalism, focusing on typography and composition to create designs that are both elegant and impactful. My approach to design is collaborative and thoughtful, always aiming to align visuals with purpose.

I live in the Netherlands, a country known for its rich artistic and design history, from the Old Masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer to modern icons like Piet Mondrian and Gerrit Rietveld. This cultural heritage has undoubtedly influenced my approach to both art and design. The Dutch emphasis on minimalism, functionality, and innovation resonates with me and often finds its way into my work, especially in the clean lines and balance I strive for in my designs.

The advantages of designing in the Netherlands are the accessibility of resources and the strong network of creative professionals. The open-mindedness and appreciation for experimentation in Dutch culture encourage me to push boundaries in my creative process. On the downside, the competitive nature of the creative industry here can be challenging, as there is a high standard of quality and originality to maintain. Nonetheless, this pushes me to continuously improve and evolve as a designer.

When collaborating with companies, I place great importance on communication and understanding their goals and values. My process begins with an in-depth discussion to understand the company’s identity, audience, and objectives. From there, I work closely with them to translate their vision into visual designs that are both impactful and meaningful.

I view each project as a partnership rather than a transaction. I value input and feedback throughout the process to ensure that the final result not only meets their expectations but also tells their story effectively. Whether it’s creating branding, illustrations, or custom artwork, I strive to deliver designs that resonate with their audience while staying true to my artistic perspective.

This collaborative approach has led to lasting relationships with clients, as I aim to be adaptable, responsive, and always committed to delivering quality.

For companies looking to collaborate with a designer, my main advice is to focus on clear and open communication from the start. A good designer should be able to listen attentively to your needs, ask the right questions, and understand the values and goals of your business. Choose a designer whose portfolio resonates with your brand and who has experience in your industry or a similar field. It’s important to also ensure that the designer’s work aligns with the style and quality you envision for your brand.

When selecting a designer, look for someone who not only has technical skills but also an ability to think creatively and offer innovative solutions. The best designers will push the boundaries while keeping the project grounded in the company’s identity. Most importantly, trust your instincts about how well the designer understands your brand and how comfortable you feel working together. A good fit will always lead to a more successful partnership.

My design process begins with research and gathering as much information as possible about the project, its goals, and the intended audience. I believe a solid foundation is key to creating designs that have both impact and purpose. I often start by sketching and brainstorming ideas to explore different approaches before refining the best concepts.

I then create drafts or prototypes to visualize the designs and present them to the client for feedback. Throughout this phase, I remain open to revisions and collaboration, ensuring the design meets the client's needs and aligns with their vision. Once the design is finalized, I move on to the production stage, where I bring the design to life using the appropriate tools and techniques. I always aim to stay flexible and adaptable, as design often evolves during the process.

Here are five of my favorite design items at home:

1. A beautiful photo by artist Ellen Kooi. She gifted it to me as a thank you after we collaborated on an art project. It's a piece that holds sentimental value and is visually stunning.
2+3. A porcelain bowl and a ceramic vase, both made by my family member Marcel Eekhout, a brilliant ceramist. His craftsmanship and the elegance of these pieces are a constant source of inspiration for me.
4. A fireplace by designer Dik Geurts. It's not only functional but also an aesthetically striking addition to my home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
5. The IKEA MASTERBY stool designed by Chris Martin. I appreciate IKEA for how they make everyday objects beautifully simple and functional. This stool is the perfect example of that balance.

A typical day in my life starts with a bit of quiet time, where I plan my tasks and get focused for the day ahead. I often begin by checking in on my ongoing projects, whether it’s working on a new painting or refining a design. If I’m working on a piece of art, the morning is usually spent in the studio, experimenting with materials, colors, or exploring new techniques. After lunch, I switch to my graphic design work, responding to emails, meeting clients, or refining concepts. Throughout the day, I keep an eye on social media, engaging with my followers—many of whom are other artists—which I see as a valuable space for exchanging ideas. Evenings are often spent reviewing what I’ve accomplished and planning the next steps, with some time for relaxation or inspiration before heading to bed. It’s a balance of focused work and creative flow, with room for reflection and growth.

To young designers, I would say: always be curious and keep learning. Design is a constantly evolving field, so stay open to new tools, techniques, and trends, but always stay true to your own voice and vision. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes—that’s often where the best breakthroughs happen.

Building a strong portfolio is crucial, but remember that networking is equally important. Connect with other designers, attend events, and engage with the creative community. It’s also important to take on a variety of projects, even those that challenge you or seem outside your comfort zone. Every experience adds to your growth.

Lastly, be patient with yourself. Design can take time, and success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep refining your skills, seeking feedback, and pushing yourself to become better.

One of the biggest positives of being a designer is the ability to turn ideas into reality and impact the way people see the world. There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from creating something that speaks to others, whether it’s a brand identity, an illustration, or a piece of art. Being a designer also offers flexibility, as you can work on a variety of projects across different industries, each with its unique challenges and opportunities for growth.

However, there are also some challenges. Design can sometimes be a solitary profession, and it can be difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially if you’re a freelancer or running your own business. Clients can sometimes have unrealistic expectations or make multiple revisions, which can be frustrating. Design can also be an emotional process—investing time and energy into a project and then facing criticism or rejection can be tough. Despite these challenges, the rewards of seeing your work come to life and knowing that it’s made an impact far outweigh the negatives.

My golden rule in design is to always prioritize the clarity of communication. Design is not just about creating something visually appealing; it’s about making sure that the message is conveyed effectively and that the design serves its purpose. Whether it's a logo, a website, or a painting, the user or viewer should immediately understand the essence of what is being communicated without confusion. I believe simplicity, paired with thoughtful execution, can make a powerful impact.

For me, the most important skills for a designer are creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Being able to think outside the box and come up with fresh ideas is essential, but a designer must also have the ability to approach problems logically and find solutions that fit the project’s goals. Attention to detail is also key, as even the smallest elements can make a big difference in the final design. Additionally, effective communication skills are crucial—both for understanding the client’s needs and for presenting and explaining design concepts clearly.

My toolbox primarily includes a combination of software and traditional tools. I work with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for most of my design work, whether it's digital artwork, layouts, or vector illustrations. I also rely on my sketchbook for initial brainstorming, sketching out ideas, and refining concepts.

In terms of inspiration, I find a lot of ideas from nature, art history, and other artists. I enjoy browsing art books, visiting galleries, and connecting with other designers online to see the latest trends and innovations. Additionally, I like to incorporate various textures and materials in my work, especially in mixed media or painting projects.

Time management in design can indeed be a challenge, but I try to approach each project with clear goals and deadlines. I break down each task into smaller, manageable chunks, prioritizing what needs to be done first. I keep a tight schedule to keep track of deadlines and milestones. Additionally, I give myself time for regular breaks to avoid burnout and keep my mind fresh. When working on a larger project, I make sure to set aside time for iteration, as design often evolves during the process.

Another important part of managing my time is being realistic about how long a task will take. I avoid overcommitting, which can lead to rushed work, and I’m mindful of balancing both client work and my personal art projects.

The time it takes to design an object varies greatly depending on the complexity of the project and the number of revisions required. For a simple design, like a logo or a small graphic, it might take a few days to a week, including client feedback and revisions. For larger, more intricate projects like a full branding package or an illustration series, it could take several weeks or even months to finalize everything.

I believe design is an iterative process, so the time frame can shift as ideas evolve and the design takes shape.

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is, "How do you come up with your ideas?" Many people are curious about my creative process and how I go from a blank canvas or page to a fully realized design. It’s always a rewarding question to answer, as it gives me the opportunity to share how much thought and exploration goes into each project. Creativity, to me, is an ongoing process of inspiration, observation, and trial and error.

One of my most important job experiences was working on a series of continuous line drawings for a government project. This project not only allowed me to showcase my artistic skills but also deepened my understanding of how design and art can communicate complex ideas in a clear and impactful way. The recognition this project received, including winning a prize, was a turning point in my career. It affirmed my passion for merging art and design and inspired me to pursue my work more seriously, both in the graphic design world and as a full-time artist.

I have had the pleasure of working with a variety of clients, including both public and private sector organizations. Some of my clients include the Inspection Council, Parklaan, Pulse, Msys, Sita Remediation, Suez, and various governmental and semi-governmental organizations. I’ve also had the opportunity to collaborate with city halls and art collectors. My work spans both the graphic design and fine art fields, and I value the diverse projects I’ve been able to contribute to over the years. It’s always a rewarding experience to work on projects that make a positive impact, whether it’s through visual communication or art that resonates with people.

I enjoy working on designs that have a strong overall concept. I’m not attached to a specific style; what matters most is that the design fits the client's needs and vision. However, I find it most fulfilling when I can create a cohesive concept that ties everything together, giving the project a clear, unified direction.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue expanding my artistic and design practice. In the immediate future, I plan to focus on experimenting with new materials and techniques in my artwork, allowing my style to evolve even further. I'm particularly interested in the intersection of art and design, and how I can push boundaries between traditional forms and digital mediums.

As for my design work, I plan to work on more collaborative projects. I’d love to engage in more multidisciplinary work, combining my graphic design background with elements of fine art to create something truly unique.

I also see great potential in strengthening my presence online and growing my community of fellow artists and designers through social media. This platform has been an amazing space for exchange, and I look forward to sharing my process and creative journey with a larger audience.

Ultimately, I want to continue to challenge myself, both as an artist and designer, and explore new avenues where my work can make a meaningful impact.

I develop my designs myself, but I collaborate with freelancers when necessary, such as writers, photographers, and other specialists. This allows me to bring in additional expertise to support my projects while maintaining my personal approach to design.

Right now, I’m focusing on creating new artwork. I’m experimenting with different materials and techniques to further develop my artistic expression. While I’m not working on any specific design projects at the moment, I’m always exploring ideas that combine my design and art practices.

People can contact me through the following ways:

Email: studio@2maalee.nl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/EliseEekhoutArt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EliseEekhoutArt/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/2maalee/
Website graphic design: https://2maalee.nl
Website art: https://eliseeekhout.nl
Studio visits: By appointment at my studio in Zoetermeer, Netherlands.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or are interested in discussing potential collaborations or projects!

One thing I would like to mention is the importance of continuously evolving as both an artist and a designer. The creative process is never static, and I believe in experimenting with new techniques, materials, and concepts to stay inspired and open to fresh ideas. I also value the opportunity to collaborate with others, whether they are fellow artists, designers, or professionals from different fields. These collaborations often lead to exciting new perspectives and innovative solutions.

Additionally, I’m very passionate about how art and design can have a positive impact on society. Whether it's through creating meaningful, thought-provoking art or designing for businesses that align with values of sustainability and social responsibility, I aim to create work that contributes to a better world.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to all the people I’ve had the chance to work with throughout my career, including my clients, collaborators, and mentors. Their support and feedback continue to be instrumental in my journey.