Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Mieke Kockelkorn. I am a independent working costume designer.
After receiving my master in Culture and Science at the Maastricht University I started a second study at the art academy. Resulting in an master degree in fashion design. Meanwhile I started working in the costume department of Opera Zuid. Recently my main focus is on designing for dance. In private life I have a busy family with a loving husband and three children.
What do you consider your distinctive achievement?
I think my work distinguishes itself from other designers because of my fashion background. In theater world very often the set designer and the costume designer is one and the same person. That’s okay, but the costumes often are the obvious choice. In my work I am not only giving the right appearance to a person on stage, I also want to really design the clothes they are wearing.
What are you looking forward to?
I am really looking forward to work on all the new projects and collaborations that are lying in front of me. Bigger challenges and possibilities. It is really fantastic to see dancers performing in your own creations. Through their bodies and the choreography they dance the costumes get a life. If there is a good collaboration between the choreographer and the designer, this can lift the piece to a higher level. I hope to create more beautiful and exciting pieces. And get to a higher level!
Which advice would you give to other professionals?
My biggest advice would be to have a focus, sharp as a laser. Ask yourself, What do I want to achieve? Narrow it down. Try to always keep that focus in mind. Try not to be persuaded too much in an other or in multiple directions. By doing so you will define yourself and the work you do. Other people will also have a better understanding of who you are and what you do.
