Marije Vogelzang

Marije Vogelzang is a prominent Dutch eating designer, recognized for her innovative approach to food and its cultural significance. She is the founder of Studio Marije Vogelzang, where she explores the psychological and social dimensions of eating. Her work emphasizes the design of unique eating experiences rather than the creation of food products.

Background and Career

Vogelzang graduated from the Design Academy Eindhoven, where she later became head of the food department. She has played a pivotal role in establishing food design as a legitimate field of study and practice. Her projects often involve interactive and performance-based elements that encourage participants to engage with food on a deeper level, exploring themes such as memory, sharing, and sensory experiences.145

Philosophy and Work

Vogelzang's philosophy centers around the idea that food design should focus on the act of eating itself. She believes that understanding our relationship with food can lead to more conscious and sustainable eating habits. Her projects include theatrical dining experiences where participants engage with food in novel ways, such as being blindfolded while being fed by a stranger, which creates an intimate and reflective atmosphere.235

In addition to her experiential work, Vogelzang has authored books and developed online courses aimed at educating others about the creative potential of food. She advocates for a broader recognition of food design as a critical area that addresses contemporary issues like obesity and environmental sustainability.145

Contributions to Food Design

Vogelzang is considered one of the pioneers in the field of eating design, alongside other notable figures like Marti Guixe. Her contributions have helped shape how designers think about food, emphasizing its role in human experience rather than merely as sustenance.46 Through her studio, she continues to inspire new generations of designers to explore the multifaceted nature of food and its impact on society.

Overall, Marije Vogelzang's work challenges conventional notions of food preparation and consumption, positioning eating as a rich area for design exploration that can foster understanding and creativity among individuals.