Fodder School Muse-of-the-Month: Mathilde Bottenheft
Mathilde Bottenheft, known online as @madebymathilde, is one of Fodder School's longest-running students. Based in the Netherlands, Mathilde has spent decades exploring mixed media art, paper crafting, stamping, hand lettering, and gel printing. Since joining Fodder School 1, she has returned year after year, embracing new techniques, creative challenges, and the supportive Fodder School community.
In our first artist spotlight, Mathilde shares her creative background, favorite Fodder School memories, and advice for new students.
What part of the world do you currently live in?
I live in Zutphen, in the eastern Netherlands.
When did your art or crafting journey begin?
That goes back to the 80s when I was a young child, at home and at grandma’s. Over the years, I've always been involved with paper, stamps, and color. I've also taught many workshops with the gelliplate and handlettering. I’ve been a member of various design teams, and create projects for a hobby magazine in the Netherlands. 
How long have you been in Fodder School and what keeps you coming back each year?
I've been participating since Fodder School 1 and keep participating because every month it's a surprise what you'll make. Sometimes it's so far out of your comfort zone that it's a challenge to make it your own. 
How has Fodder School influenced your creative journey or daily art practice?
It has helped me continue to be creative every day and every week and use all kinds of products.
What’s one project, technique, or lesson from FS that completely lit you up?
That was the very first lesson of Fodder School 1! You worked with watercolors and the end result was the Fodder Keeper. I still use it!
How would you describe the Fodder School community in three words?
Diverse – Creative - Inspiring
One piece of encouragement for a brand-new student?
Be flexible. Go at your own pace, use what you have, and bring your own vision into every project.
We’re endlessly inspired by our Fodder School superfans and the heart they bring to this community. Stay tuned for more spotlights!
Fodder School is a global online platform where creative workshops bring people together. It’s a diverse, creative, and inspiring community that helps you discover new techniques, share ideas, and grow your artistic practice in unexpected ways!
