July 8 and 9, 2023 Michel Bongertman exhibited at the gallery.

In July, I have a guest artist who is very special to me: the teacher who instilled in me a love of spatial work, Michel Bongertman.

Michel makes realistic sculptures, for which he has been inspired by Africa, among other things, for 30 years. During a working period in Africa, he studied African techniques and wood types. And Africa never let him go after that; he has been back there many times.

In addition to large sculptures, Michel also makes wearable sculptures. During the corona period, he intensified his work on this. They are amulets made of various types of wood, in shapes that ask to be caressed. They are intended by Michel to be stress relievers. You calm down when you hold them in your hands and concentrate on the shape and structure.

During the workshop weekend, Michel will bring these amulets; they are also for sale. When the weather is nice, he will be working outside and you can see how he makes them.

In addition, Michel will bring portraits made of wood and wooden sculptures he created in collaboration with Gambian woodcarver Hadim Sowe.

Michel taught at the Vrije Academie in Nunspeet for 23 years. He has also been organizing the sculpture route in Natuurpark Lelystad with Hein Walter for years, this year for the ^19th time.