About
I am Jan Kriekels, entrepreneur, innovator and visionary thinker driven by the belief that creativity and technology can shape a better future.
As Creative Owner & Vision Keeper of Uchronia Ark, I create a platform where art, innovation, entrepreneurship and human connection converge. A place where ideas are challenged, boundaries are pushed and new possibilities are explored.
For more than 40 years, I helped shape the evolution and international growth of Jaga. Through my roles as R&D Manager and Marketing Manager, I combined innovation, product development and strategic communication to position Jaga as a global pioneer in sustainable heating solutions and forward-thinking climate technology.
Today, I continue this journey through Uchronia Ark, connecting people, disciplines and ideas to inspire innovation, creativity and meaningful change. I believe the future belongs to those who dare to imagine it differently.
Experience
Uchronia Ark
Creative Owner & Vision Keeper
Mar 2026 – Present
As Creative Owner & Vision Keeper of Uchronia Ark, I bring together decades of entrepreneurial experience, innovation and creative thinking to shape a new vision for the future. I connect people, ideas and disciplines, creating a space where experimentation, imagination and transformation can thrive. Uchronia Ark is a platform where creativity, technology and human connection merge to inspire new perspectives and shape the world of tomorrow.
Jaga Climate Designers
Owner, CEO, Art Director, Director R&D, Marketing of Jaga
Jan 1980 – Feb 2026
For more than 40 years, I led Jaga as CEO, helping transform the company into an internationally recognised pioneer in sustainable heating and climate solutions. Driven by innovation, design excellence, and environmental responsibility, I helped build Jaga into a global brand operating in markets around the world. Throughout my career, I have championed forward-thinking product development and fostered a culture of creativity, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to a better future.
Achievements
From pioneering sustainable innovation to building a globally recognised brand, my career has been defined by bold ideas, visionary leadership, and a relentless drive to challenge convention.
The Visionary Leader
Transforming Jaga into a global pioneer in sustainable climate solutions.
The Innovator
Driving breakthrough technologies, design, and sustainability.
The Global Ambassador
Bringing Belgian innovation to markets around the world.
The Author
Sharing his philosophy in Innovate or Die.
The Uchronian
Creating Uchronia as a community where creativity, innovation, art, and human connection shape the future.
2006 – Nevada, Burning Man
Uchronia: Message Out of the Future
2009 – Kopenhagen, COP15
An artistic and political statement on climate and the future
2015 – Tongeren, Vikimania
A meeting place for open knowledge and collective imagination
2025 – Alken, Uchronia Ark
The beginning of a new Human-Tech Renaissance
Jaga World Tour
World Creativity Forum
Burning Man 2006
Red Dot Design Award
BODW Hong Kong
Where time does not exist, and the future takes shape.
The Uchronia Ark in Alken is a unique place where creativity, innovation, sustainability, and human connection come together. I conceived the Ark as more than a destination. It is a living ecosystem where entrepreneurs, artists, designers, researchers, and visionaries come together to collaborate, experiment, and shape ideas for a better future.
Visit the Uchronia Ark?
Klein-Kolmenstraat 1620, 3570 Alken
Visits are only possible by appointment.
Please contact us by email at hello@uchronians.org.
Innovate Or Die
Innovate or Die is my (Jan Kriekels) personal vision on innovation, creativity, and the future of business.
In this book, I share my experiences as an entrepreneur and visionary leader, highlighting the importance of continuous reinvention, challenging conventions, and embracing change.
Through stories, insights, and lessons learned from my journey with Jaga, I explore how innovation can become a driving force for sustainable progress and a better future.
