Studio Mikkel

Michael “Mikkel” Olthof is a Leiden-based artist and creative technologist working at the intersection of art, science, engineering, and design. He creates captivating, often interactive installations that challenge perception, spark curiosity, and invite audiences to experience technology in unexpected ways. His practice moves freely between emerging technologies and forgotten machines, combining artificial intelligence, generative systems, and creative coding with vintage electronics, mechanical devices, and analogue media. Through experimentation and unconventional combinations of technologies, he transforms complex technical principles into tangible, playful, and thought-provoking experiences. Rather than using technology for its own sake, Mikkel is interested in uncovering the surprising possibilities hidden within both old and new systems. His work frequently explores the relationships between humans and machines, the physical and digital worlds, and the ways technology shapes our understanding of reality. With a hands-on approach that spans programming, electronics, engineering, and physical fabrication, he develops his installations from initial concept to functioning artwork. His projects range from immersive audiovisual environments to autonomous artificial ecosystems and revived historical communication technologies.