Sculpture exhibition Hortus Animali

Together with artists Fiona Zondervan, Cindy Sprokel and Pieter Jan Kuiken, we form this year’s Hortus Sculpture Committee. The theme was quickly conceived: ‘Animals’ and following this, I created the title: ‘Hortus Animali’. This fitting title “Hortus Animali” promises something very special in few words. A coming together of people, animals and nature on many levels. We shortlisted suitable artists around this theme and eventually 25 artists agreed to exhibit their work in the Hortus.

In preparation, we visited some of the participating artists. I find that a real privilege: to look inside a studio/workshop, the creative incubator where the personal and magical process of creation takes place. On a beautiful winter day in January, I went to visit Renée Marcus Janssen in Amsterdam. She has her studio in the old NDSM shed: a robust and historic place where many artists have found a place to work. Her beautiful animal figures – beautifully displayed on the mezzanine in her studio – were silent witnesses to our meeting. Even before this visit, I had chosen one of her works as the central image for all graphics, and fortunately she agreed.

Hortus Haren | Sculpture Expo | Hortus Animali

The dynamics of spatial sculptures in natural settings.
In consultation with the artists, the more than 100 sculptures were placed in the Hortus’ varied gardens. Thus, they engage in a dialogue with the environment and add a new dimension to that place. For four months, visitors can enjoy an inspiring and poetic encounter with the sculptures that range in material use, texture, form (ranging from figurative to nearly abstract) and in size from small to large.

Many thanks to the board of the Hortus: Douwe Wiersma and Jan Poutsma, who consider this Sculpture Expo important for the Hortus and also guarantee the financial backing. And, of course, all the artists who participated in the creation of this special exhibition. Kudos also to the Haren printing company van Ark for all the wonderful printing – and has been for years. Rob Møhlmann of Museum Møhlmann for opening remarks. And last but not least, Fiona, Cindy and Pieter Jan.

Harry Zijderveld

Participating artists

Marianne Bijker
Cindy Sprokel
Pieter Jan Kuiken
Derk den Boer
Judith Nieuwhof
Lydia Schroeder
Marco Dijkstra
Karin Beek
Bea Mol
Patricia Suer
Peter Scheedler
Marjan Schaap
Maja van Berkestijn

Fiona Zondervan
Els van der Glas
William van der Velde
Harry de Dood
Jonneke Kodde
Martin Greek
Gert Bakker
Marina van der Kooi
Anuska ‘t Hart
Bert Denneman
Renée Marcus Janssen
Jaap Hartman

Sculpture is an art for the open air….
I would prefer an image of me
is placed in a landscape,
in almost any landscape,
than in or on the most beautiful building I know.
Henry Moore

I am interested in creating
of an experience for the viewer,
not just an object
Richard Serra