Matthijs Boelee leaves as Head of Fashion Design
- Fashion
After an impressive career, including 35 years at ArtEZ, Matthijs Boelee is stepping down as Head of the Bachelor's Programme in Fashion Design at the ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design Arnhem.
He began as a student in Arnhem, where he was taught by Elly Lamaker - founder of the Fashion Design programme. Shortly after graduating in 1985, he was already teaching. First in Arnhem, later also in Maastricht, Breda, and Kampen. Always with the same drive. Always with heart for the craft and for his students.
Builder and innovator
As Head of the programme, Matthijs shaped the curriculum for nineteen years. He emphasised craftsmanship and textiles and, but also focused on innovation, collaboration, and digital technology. His strength? Tireless dedication. A sharp eye and a deep belief that every student has more potential than they realise. He encouraged them to show their work - both within and beyond the academy walls. He initiated the programme’s social media channels and developed the website Arnhem Fashion Design, an archive filled with graduation collections and projects. A time capsule of creativity, and a source of inspiration for students, alumni, and fashion lovers alike.
A new era
With Matthijs’s departure, a new chapter begins. Starting in the 2025–2026 academic year, Sanne Schepers will take over. Sanne graduated from the BA Fashion Design in 2011, and was one of Matthijs’s students. Together with Anne Bosman, she runs the label Schepers Bosman. She has also been teaching at ArtEZ for several years, and led the Collectie Arnhem project.
More about the BA Fashion Design