“What’s up Next?” is a series of articles and interviews meant to better showcase the trajectories of our Next Talents.
We are meeting the 2026-2027 generation of talents in two key moments: at the start of their trajectory – focussing on finding out more about the artists and what they expect from the program, and at the end of their course, discussing the things they picked up on the way.
With this interview we are introducing you to animator and illustrator: Vanessa Postma.
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Vanessa Postma: “I have a background in illustration and animation. I started with a degree in Graphic Design at Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam. After that, I did my bachelor’s in Illustration and Animation at St. Joost in Breda, followed by a Master’s in Animation in Den Bosch.
Since graduating, I’ve worked on different kinds of projects, ranging from illustration and animation to 3D and self-initiated projects. I really enjoy switching between 2D and 3D, depending on the project. Over the years, my work has developed in different directions, which has allowed me to explore different ways of working and different forms of storytelling. Some of the projects I’ve worked on include a window display for Vans in Utrecht, illustrations for a symposium celebrating 50 years of Surinamese independence at the Dutch Senate, and two self-initiated exhibitions with a group of friends.”
2. Can you tell us something about a project close to your heart?
VP: “One project that is very special to me is Gowtu, a self-initiated 3D project exploring my Surinamese roots. I had been looking for a way to incorporate my Surinamese identity into my work, while approaching it from a personal perspective.
I focused on traditional Surinamese jewellery that I wear myself. Being half Surinamese, I sometimes experience a feeling of not fully belonging. For me, wearing these pieces is a visual way of showing that I belong, without having to explain or justify my background.
The project also brought together things I really enjoy: fashion, strong visuals and 3D. Exhibiting the work was especially meaningful because it led to conversations with people who recognised themselves in the themes of identity and belonging.
I think Gowtu reflects my artistic vision because I like creating polished, playful and visually striking work, while still having a personal story behind it that people can connect with.”
3. What kind of projects would you like to work on?
VP: “I would love to work on more commercial projects, especially with brands. I have a strong affinity with brands such as Nike and Patta , and I’m interested in projects where I can bring my own visual approach into an existing brand and see how the two can work together. Almost like a collaboration.
At the same time, I want to keep developing my personal work alongside commercial projects. I see personal work as an important way to develop my visual language and skills, but also as a way to reflect on things that happen in my life, both positive and difficult. I’d also love to show more of this work in exhibitions, film festivals and other physical spaces, and connect with people through it.”
4. Where does your inspiration come from?
VP: “An artist who really inspires me is Felicia Chiao. I first discovered her work at Pictoplasma in 2025, where she was one of the speakers. I really admire her use of colour, character design and the technical level of her illustrations.
What I especially like is how she combines a strong visual style with personal stories and emotions. Her work can feel playful and visually engaging, while still having something deeper behind it. That combination is something I also want to explore more in my own work.”
5. What are you planning to work on during your Next Talent trajectory?
VP: “With Next Talent, I hope to develop myself not only as an artist, but also on the professional and business side of my practice. I want to learn more about positioning myself, networking, negotiating, pricing my work and finding my place within the commercial industry.
I also want to become more active and visible within the industry by sharing my work, taking part in open calls and events, and being more present within the creative community. I think Next is a good environment to build that confidence and mindset, especially through the guidance, mentorship and conversations with other artists.
Artistically, I want to keep developing my visual language and become more intentional about the direction I want to take with my work. I’m still exploring exactly what that will look like, and I see Next as a space where I can develop that further.”
6. What did you hear about the Next Talent program that made you want to join it?
VP: “I first heard about Next Talent after graduating from my Master’s in 2023. Several friends of mine had taken part in the programme, including Eva Bonnevits, Cheyenne Goudswaards, Afan Zheng and Puck Paassen. Through their stories and experiences, I already had a good idea of what Next was like.
I spoke with Cheyenne the most, and she especially encouraged me several times to apply. She felt it would be a good fit for me, and hearing about her experience made me curious about what I could get out of the programme myself. What appealed to me was that Next seemed to offer not only guidance in developing your work, but also a chance to grow professionally, meet people and take the next step in your practice.
The more I learned about it, the more I realised that, considering where I am now in my career and personal practice, this feels like the right moment to take that next step.”
7. If the Next Talent program could arrange for you a mentoring session with anyone in the world, who would that person be and why?
VP: “It’s difficult for me to name just one person, because there are so many artists I admire for different reasons. But if I think about a studio that has inspired me for years, I would choose Golden Wolf, an animation and creative studio based in London.
I’ve been following their work since my bachelor’s and have always really been inspired by the level of their work. I love how they combine commercial projects with strong, playful visuals and storytelling. That combination is something I really aspire to explore in my own practice as well, so I would be very interested in learning from how they approach their work.”
Vanessa’s works were already included in our Illustrada 2026 program, enchanting visitors of the Emmapassage in Tilburg. We’re very excited to see how she will develop even more thorough the Next Talent program.