INTERVIEW COVER ARTIST MEREL VAN DE POL
Merel van de Pol is an illustrator and graphic designer from Tilburg, known as Murls. Her style is a mix of dynamic illustrations: sometimes very clean-lined and sometimes richly layered, combined with analogue textures, vibrant colours and a surrealistic touch. Chances are you’ve already held one of her works in your hands or come across it somewhere in the city, without immediately recognising her name.
Inspired by the stories behind 013 Straatjes and her own view of Tilburg, she created a cover for the tenth City Guide brimming with Tilburg’s energy.
What’s the idea behind the cover?
“A large plant winds its way across the cover, symbolising Tilburg’s development: greener, vibrant, creative and versatile. The little hands represent the entrepreneurs, makers and residents who come together to create, build and inspire one another. At the same time, the plant forms one long thread, a nod to Tilburg as a textile city. On the front cover, that thread passes through the eye of a large needle, which forms the basis of the ‘013 Straatjes’ street sign. The winding shape refers to the network of streets throughout the city and to the City Guide itself.”
“On the inside flap, the plant, the city, pollinates itself. This image symbolises collaboration, connection and the city’s continued growth from home-grown ideas. The pollen is collected in the Tilburg kruik, from which the title is derived: Kruikbestuiving.”
Where can your work be seen?
“I’ve collaborated with, amongst others, Schouwburg Concertzaal Tilburg and Illustrada Festival. My prints, such as ‘Tilburg – Stil Lèève’, can be found at VANDEMAKER, Info in Tilburg and Buutvrij. You might also have come across my illustrations in the Schrobbelèr Cookbook, which is available at Ollie’s and 63 Graden, amongst other places. You’ll also find me here and there at local makers’ markets, where I sell my own work.”
What are your favourite spots in Tilburg?
“I love going for a walk or a run in Moerenburg or along the Piushaven. Nature, woods and water make me happy. You’ll also often find me at La Poubelle or Kringloop013, where, alongside some real gems, I often come across slightly unnecessary finds. I enjoy visiting Cinecitta, going to concerts at 013 or Paradox, the market and fun festivals, and I love browsing the records at Sounds. Or I might be sitting in the sunshine at De Graanhandel, with a glass of wine, a coffee and a coconut biscuit.”
What do you like about Tilburg?
“The fact that it’s so wonderfully raw, combined with all the great creative initiatives in the city. Everyone is welcome and everyone is equal. The people of Tilburg really seem to be shaping the city themselves, which I particularly love.”
View more work by Merel van de Pol via murls.nl and Instagram.