“Our Waste First”

24 April 2026

Our Own Waste First

During SHE* Week at Henkel, I created the ‘Henkel Collection’: trophies made from plastic packaging and other waste, which I transformed on site over the course of two days into a wall piece for the Community Space.

Employees brought in empty packaging, and of course I also did some rummaging through bins myself. These are exactly the kinds of assignments that make me happy. Not just the making itself, but also the conversations with employees about all sorts of topics. I enjoy talking about my mission, but I find it just as interesting to hear how things work, for example, how products earn their place on supermarket shelves.

My artwork really comes into its own in this remarkable office, part of Wonderwoods near Utrecht Central Station. I travelled there by train, of course, with a rolling suitcase full of tools.

Henkel has been around for 150 years and, in addition to consumer products, produces a great deal for industry. You don’t often see coloured detergent bottles anymore, but fortunately Fleuril still comes in one, perfect for my work. I also used packaging from Witte Reus, Pritt, Pattex, Schwarzkopf, Osis+, Authentic Beauty Concept, and others.

And while rinsing out a few bottles, I discovered one of the most beautiful caps I’ve ever seen: the one from Pril dishwashing liquid. Perfectly suited as eyes.

* SHE stands for Safety, Health & Environment