Theme: Rain

One basic weather element that is immediately connected to the Netherlands is rain.

However, upon doing some research it became clear that it doesn't actually rain that much in the Netherlands. The average rainfall isn't that high. It is the unpredictability of the weather which makes the country so infamous for its rain. Having no mountains in the country means that there is nothing to stop the incoming depressions from the sea.

Inspiration Project: Made by Rain

https://madebyrain.com/

Using a film coat that is sensitive to water, Dutch artist Aliki van de Kruijs was able to capture the rain onto textile, creating weather that you could wear.

"The wonderful thing about rain is that it outlines the countour of the immediate landscape around you. You hear the space. When we became more urban, we tend to really forget that basic pleasure and touching whatever the environment is."

The Five Senses of Rain

Smell

Most people can easily identify the distinctive smell of rain, whether it be on the pavement or on grassy surfaces.

Petrichor: a pleasant smell that frequently accompanies the first rain after a long period of warm, dry weather

Sound

The sound of rain can be very relaxing, just by searching for it on YouTube you will get thousands of videos to fall asleep to just playing the sound of rain.

Sight

Rain gives surfaces reflective properties. We often overlook it, but when the focus is put on this aspect you can add very much beauty to the mundane. Additionally, as rain falls it paints the ground in whatever contour it hits the ground.

Touch

A common tactic for overcoming panic attacks is using cold water to splash your face. The touch of water can be very grounding. Often we try to avoid being touched by rain by hiding under clothing, umbrellas, and shelters. Instead of escaping it, why don't we embrace it?

Taste

Water is necessary for most forms of life to function, including us.

Social Aspect

Once the rain starts pouring down, you will see groups of people coming together under shelters. In this way, rain jackets and umbrellas are very disuniting items.