Jonne found an unexpected direction during the preparatory programme
When Jonne Oxener started the Art & Design Preparatory Programme at ArtEZ University of the Arts, he still thought his future lay in fashion. For four years, he studied Fashion Tailor at Rijn IJssel, and fashion felt like the logical next step. Yet the preparatory programme ultimately led him in a different direction: to Product Design at ArtEZ, where he will begin his studies next academic year.
Discovering Different Disciplines
Through the collaboration between Rijn IJssel and ArtEZ University of the Arts, Jonne had the opportunity to participate in the preparatory programme alongside his mbo studies. The preparatory programme is open to anyone who wants to explore a future in art or design education, from vocational (mbo), secondary (havo and vwo) students to prospective students looking to explore a different creative direction. Over the course of eighteen Saturdays, Jonne explored various disciplines, including Fashion Design, Fine Art, Spatial Design, and Product Design. “You really get the space to explore many different directions. That way, you not only discover what you enjoy, but sometimes also what makes you less happy.”
Product Design Instead of Fashion Design
During the preparatory programme, Jonne noticed that he became increasingly energized by the Product Design assignments. Although he already had a strong foundation in fashion, he discovered that he enjoyed working more broadly with materials, shapes, and concepts. “I realized that I actually found the Product Design assignments more interesting than the Fashion Design ones,” Jonne says. “I love working with my hands and being creative in different ways.”
“At ArtEZ, you’re really challenged to look at things differently. It’s not only about the final result, but also about how you think, how you work, and how you develop yourself.”
The Difference Between mbo and Higher Education
Jonne also noticed a clear difference between his mbo education and the teaching approach at ArtEZ. At Rijn IJssel, the focus is much more on technique, craftsmanship, and garment construction, while the preparatory programme at ArtEZ centered around experimentation, research, and concept development. “At ArtEZ, you’re really challenged to look at things differently. It’s not only about the final result, but also about how you think, how you work, and how you develop yourself.”
More Than a Portfolio
In addition to creative growth, the preparatory programme also brought new challenges. Jonne combined the classes with school and internships, which taught him how to plan, work independently, and manage deadlines. “Those eighteen Saturdays mean you’re constantly engaged creatively. Sometimes it’s quite intense, but that’s also why you grow so much.”
According to Jonne, the preparatory programme is not just about creating work or building a portfolio. The feedback sessions and conversations with teachers especially helped him gain a better understanding of his own qualities and interests.
