Exploring Hemp, magnesium and potato starch

In this project Minerva Art Academy and IHOG are looking at alternative, natural binders like magnesium and potato starch, to combine with hemp fibers. IHOG (Innovation Hub East Groningen) is a cooperation of three companies based in the Province of Groningen: Hempflax (hemp fiber), Nedmag (magnesium salts) and Avebe (potato). Natural fibers like hemp are often used as reinforcement in combination with a synthetic binder, which makes the fusion material non-circular. Designer & Minerva researcher Jack Brandsma and students have made a range of samples and prototypes of IHOG’s natural materials.

Jack Brandsma (1969) graduated from Minerva Art Academy (BA Interior Architecture) in 1997. In 2001 he graduated from the Royal College of Art London (MA Design Products). Besides having his own design studio he has been involved in teaching and material research at Minerva. In the Minerva/IHOG project students have been working in Jack’s studio/workshop to gain knowledge and understanding about the given materials.

The photographer of the portrait is Thijs Quispel

All the other pictures are all made by me, Jack Brandsma