Hof der dingen - Flax cello: a testament to West Flemish innovation

“We have an incredible history here. The textile industry played a major role in Belgium’s prosperity, and it’s a privilege to contribute to the next chapter of that story”, explains Tim Duerinck. 

Tim is an instrument maker and researcher who builds cellos and other instruments made from flax. At the request of TEXLAB Texture (Museum of Flax and Textile in Courtray) where he was employed as an artist-in-residence, he built a cello entirely made from flax composite materials. 

“Most of the world’s flax supply is still cultivated right here in West Flanders. The fibres that I use in my workshop still look exactly like they did 200 years ago. We’re still world leaders in this industry, but need to start looking at things differently. Right now, I’m making musical instruments made from flax, but I don’t see that as a replacement for traditionally built instruments. I think of it as a worthy alternative, just like the success of the electric guitar didn’t cause the disappearance of acoustic guitars.”, he declares. 

In terms of sustainability, this cello made from flax performs a lot better. From a technical point of view, it’s a strong material the work with, and the history connected to flax, of course, enhances the backstory – a beautiful thing. I hope that people will be open-minded enough to consider using musical instruments made from alternative materials, to break away from stereotypes and myths to think more openly about these alternatives. If something as established as a cello can be made in an entirely different and sustainable way – who knows what else might be possible?”