What happens when you win The Current Current Award? Winner Sofie looks back
Sofie de Vroom graduated from the bachelor's programme Creative Writing in 2025 with Limita, an installation where language, memory and collectivity came together. During the opening of ArtEZ finals at ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design Arnhem, she was announced as one of the winners of The Current Current Award. A year later, she reflects on what this recognition has meant for her.
From award to foundation
The Current Current Award includes seed funding of €2,600. Sofie used the prize money to establish a literary connection foundation. Through the foundation, she organises activities focused on ecology, feminism and education. Her aim is to create stronger connections within the literary world.
The award also brought greater visibility. 'It felt like the recognition that now sometimes helps me take that extra step. On my CV, for example, it has helped me get invited to interviews more often. For residencies and visibility, an award like this is incredibly valuable.'
'I sometimes felt like a bit of an unusual writer.'
More confidence in her own practice
The award also encouraged Sofie to continue following her own path. 'I sometimes felt like a bit of an unusual ‘writer’, because I created an installation that is much more about space than about the written word. Yet I always work from stories and poetic imagery.' The fact that the jury still considered her work relevant gave her confidence a significant boost.
New work and progressing to the master's programme
Sofie is now studying in the master's programme Creative Writing. Alongside her studies, she works as a programme maker and educator while developing new projects. One of these projects is an installation in the form of a lighthouse. It explores hope, support, friendship, doubt, idealism, fear and responsibility. 'I’m creating this installation in collaboration with many people, including my parents, which feels very special.'
About The Current Current Award
Through The Current Current Award, ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design Arnhem creates space for work that moves, challenges and raises new questions. Each programme nominates one graduating student. From these nominations, a jury selects the winners.
Curious to see who will follow in the footsteps of Sofie and the other winner, Isaac van den Aker, this year? The winners will be announced during the opening of the finals exhibition of ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design Arnhem on July 1st.
