Tinkebell .

TINKEBELL. is the pseudonym of Katinka Simonse, a Dutch conceptual artist, writer, and provocateur born in 1979.14 She is known for her controversial and thought-provoking works that challenge societal norms and highlight hypocrisy in modern society.1

Artistic Approach

TINKEBELL.'s art is characterized by its provocative nature and its aim to expose blind spots in society. She confronts the public with uncomfortable truths and questions their moral inconsistencies. For example, she has addressed issues such as:

• The treatment of animals in the food and fashion industries
• The sexualization of young women in media
• Environmental concerns
• Social hypocrisy

One of her most notorious works involved turning her own cat into a handbag to highlight the hypocrisy surrounding animal use in leather production and consumption.1

Education and Career

TINKEBELL. has a strong educational background in arts:

• MFA in Design from Sandberg Instituut Amsterdam (2003-2005)
• BFA in Fine Arts from Fontys Academie voor Beeldende Vorming Tilburg (1999-2003)
• Studies in Graphic Design and Advertising at St-Lucas MBO Boxtel (1997-1999)
• Fine Arts and Applied Arts at VTS Technicum Antwerp (1996-1997)1

Her work spans various mediums, including visual art, performance, film, and writing. She has had numerous solo and group exhibitions, participated in art fairs, and has been represented by TORCH Gallery.1

Writing and Publications

TINKEBELL. is also an accomplished writer:

• She has written several books, including "Het gevaar van angst - hypochonderen in Fukushima" (2018) and "Waarschuwing, de schrijver van dit boek is een kunstenaar" (2016)
• She has worked as a columnist for various publications, including Het Parool, Oneworld magazine, and Trouw1

Current Focus

TINKEBELL. describes herself as a "story teller and maker" who is currently using her "superpower to save the world".23 This aligns with her ongoing projects that often have social and environmental themes. For instance, she has been working on projects related to the Fukushima nuclear disaster and its aftermath.1

Through her provocative art and writing, TINKEBELL. continues to challenge societal norms and encourage public discourse on important issues, effectively using her platform as an artist to address global concerns.