EDIT.
by Kiki Niesten
Kiki Niesten, opened her first eponymous boutique at the age of 21 in Maastricht. Today, 45 years later, Kiki opens her second store ‘K IK I voor iedereen’, in what used to be the studio of renowned artist and interior architect Herman Zeekaf on the iconic Stokstraat. As a high school student, she used to press her nose against Zeekaf’s window, admiring the allure of its interiors. “The building has been renovated and restored with Herman's approval”, she comments tenderly with her deep tone of voice.
“I see my career as a playground with multiple attractions, inviting different individuals through various attractions. My new boutique ‘K IK I voor iedereen’ is meant for everyone, welcoming whoever has a sense of style, regardless of their budget."
About the artwork in this portrait
“I fell in love with Klaas Kloosterboer's red gloves when I first saw them five years ago at Buitenplaats Kasteel Wijlre. I took an option on them just when the pandemic hit, and everything slowed down. His wife called me annually to ask if I was still interested. Eventually, I couldn’t imagine life without them. They are two left hands, and I ironically decided to hang them behind my desk while I like to think I have two right hands.”
Artwork
“Stillness in Movement by Chaim van Luit. I first spotted it at gallery Tegenbosch van Vreden in Amsterdam. I like how graphical it is, while the deer antlers add a more classical element. The work also addresses the definition of our own territory, a matter close to my heart. I had to repaint the wall before Chaim came to create the work in our space. I love the fact that the purchase of this work comes with the possibility of repainting the wall three times.”
Book
“I read voraciously, especially at night. My favourite author is Bart Moeyaert, a Belgian writer whose work spans from children's books to adult literature, a little like The Little Prince. His latest book, Another Life, tells the beautiful story of a man who took his mother on a three-day trip to Paris for her 70st birthday, reflecting on his life and the difficulties of his coming-out.”
Item
“The KASSL Tote canvas, it fits my life. I love it to the point that I had a special edition made for the opening of K IK I.”
The special edition Kiki Tote canvas will be available exclusively at K IK I from the 18th of July.
Object
“Lighters. I collect them as they are indispensable to me; I never leave the house without six in my bag because one might run out. I try to avoid noisy lighters, as they make it impossible to smoke secretly. My partner being a doctor, he obviously disapproves of my smoking habit.”
Person
“Catherine Deneuve is a true role model for me, both because of her fabulous personality and for the incredible actress that she is. She does not have the vanity of her talent. Her films, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg and Belle de Jour have shaped my view of femininity.”
Pouch canvas black / oil black
Word
“Kut. My partner had a ‘kut’ necklace made by a jeweller, on an idea of my friend Cecile Narinx.”
