Can you describe the unusual building in which you set up your studio?
In 1989, me and my partner bought this charming old train station building, which dates back to 1857, and fully renovated it. It is a very peaceful and inspiring place to work. With plenty of natural light, which is essential for my line of work.
How do you handle working by yourself for a long time?
Working in solitude suits me. I love the tranquillity of the studio when it is just me and the glass. It helps me to be creative and keep my focus. Distraction is detrimental to my work. I realise this is not for everyone, some trainees dropped out because of this aspect of the craft.
Is your craft strongly linked to your local heritage?
I work a lot on historical buildings in Flanders, often in churches. For example, I restored stained glass windows at the visitors' centre of the Ghent Altarpiece in Ghent’s St Bavo's Cathedral. When I make contemporary creations for old buildings, I make sure they fit well in the historical framework.
What was a particularly memorable moment in your professional life?
The inauguration of six contemporary stained glass windows in the Arenberg Castle in Leuven. I highlighted the castle’s history and its current function as a university building with texts, painted with calligraphy. It was special to collaborate closely with the University of Leuven on this.