Neele Verhees

“Liminal Layers’ explores decomposition and renewal through tactile earthy forms. Using locally sourced wool and meditative processes -

Washing,

Carding,

Spinning,

and knitting -  to honour nature’s cycles.

My aim is to create burial vessels that reflect healing, resilience and transformation. While researching the intimate dialogue between matter and human intervention.

This project is ongoing. So far, I have focused on the area surrounding my hometown, which I consider Part One of the research. Future developments will explore different regions across the Netherlands, with a focus on local foliage, soil, and ecology. The aim is to connect and adapt the shrouding vessels to each specific regional environment.

I view this project as a long-term, immersive research process. I have yet to begin the next phase, as I believe it will be most fruitful to take the time to truly engage with and understand each area. I have divided the Netherlands into five regions, linking each to local sheep breeds for material, dye plants for potential color, and commonly occurring soil types to inform visual and structural decisions. These distinctions will allow the future shrouds to be deeply personalised and regionally grounded.