A Safe Cocoon – from the Mind of Tom Van der Borght

[x_section style=”margin: 0px 0px 0px 0px; padding: 45px 0px 45px 0px; “][x_row inner_container=”true” marginless_columns=”false” bg_color=”” style=”margin: 0px auto 0px auto; padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px; “][x_column bg_color=”” type=”1/4″ style=”padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px; “][x_text class=”center-text “]by Danny de la Cruz / Photo credit: Courtesy of Tom Van der Borght[/x_text][/x_column][x_column bg_color=”” type=”3/4″ style=”padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px; “][x_text]I came across the collection by artist Tom Van der Borght and was immediately mesmerized. Born from seven stages of his life and experiences, “7 ways to be TVDB / Act 1: Create a Safe Cocoon,” gives the world a chance to dive into the TVDB universe.

Seven looks that “are an exploration of the concept of restriction as a base for experiment and materialization,” according to show notes, make up the collection and are primarily created with unconventional materials.

The result is a collection which requires one to take pause. It is both powerful and jarring, yet a colorful and whimsical collection that resonates with me even more so during these unique times. While many feel isolation, helplessness and darkness during quarantine and lockdown as a result of the pandemic, I can relate to many pieces in the “porcupine-like” collection in regards for a desire to protect and guard myself. During these times when physical distancing is required, this collection, filled with points, volume and sheer audacity, literally keeps others away to observe and ponder safely from a distance. At the same time, there are moments in each look that allow observers to see past the cage of protection and offer a glimpse into the wearer.

Learn more about Tom Van der Borght.

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