DAT. by Daan Theys

Born in 1986, Daan Theys is a Belgian artist and designer known for his innovative and expressive installations and objects. His work reflects a deep passion for art history, archaeology, and craftsmanship. Growing up in a family of glassblowers, Daan was exposed to the art of glassblowing at an early age and began experimenting with the craft at just eight years old. This early experience with glass set the foundation for his future artistic career.

Following his youthful explorations, Daan decided to study fine arts at St. Lukas in Brussels. This education provided him with a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills essential for his development as a designer. His career took off when, in 2005, he co-founded the Theys & Miseur Art-Gallery in Leuven with his parents. The gallery specialized in artistic glasswork, sculptures, paintings, and crystal glass design pieces, allowing Daan to further explore and develop his passion for art and design.

A pivotal moment in Daan's career came in 2015 with the creation of his first pavilion, "Monument for a Dove." This project inspired him to expand and refine his artistic vision. Seeking to further hone his skills, Daan pursued a degree in interior design with a focus on furniture and object design at ID&A Thomas More in Mechelen. Here, he successfully combined his fascination for visual art and furniture objects, resulting in a unique and recognizable style.

Daan subsequently founded DAT.Gallery, a platform dedicated to collectible design. His works are an eclectic homage to the past, imbued with a clear promise to the future. His designs provoke discussion and offer a depth often lacking in contemporary interiors.

Each piece Daan creates is unique and handcrafted, with a strong preference for pure materials such as metal, glass, and wood. His designs blend refinement with brutalism, resulting in pieces that are both elegant and robust. This fusion of styles often serves as a catalyst for engaging conversations and profound reflections. The objects from DAT.Gallery find their way into the interiors of collectors seeking distinctive and meaningful additions to their collections.

Daan Theys' work spans the gap between past and future, embodying a rich dialogue between tradition and innovation in the world of design and art. His creative journey is a continuous exploration of poetry, form, and color, with each new project presenting a challenge and an opportunity to deepen and share his vision of design with the world.