Sculpting in wood combines two of my passions:
a) Creating sculptures that show (and sometimes exaggerate) the character of my source of inspiration. My inspiration mostly comes in a flash. When I'm struck by the beauty of 'something' in my environment. That's when I want to make a carving which will express the feeling that came over me.
b) Working in wood, with its endless variation in character, structure and colour. It gives an extra dimension to an object.
In 1981, at the age of 20, I bought my first 'serious' carving tools and my first book about woodcarving. From the very moment I started carving, I was hooked! Sculpting and carving became a big part of my life. Most of the woodcarving techniques I taught myself. But I also took several courses in woodcarving, drawing and modeling.
Although I love wood it is not the wood that inspires me to start a carving. On the contrary, I select a piece of wood based on my design. Designing on paper, in wax/clay or by use of the computer is an essential step in my way of working.
It takes a lot of inspiration and perspiration to transform an idea into a design and into a final shape. Woodcarving takes a lot of time and hard working. But the activity itself is rewarding and the result cannot be achieved by any other material.
To me, the human figure has always been a source of inspiration. But it's very complex and it took me a long time and quite a few failed projects, before I did dare carve realistic faces, hands and feet. But gradually I did build up enough knowledge and skill to carve full figures and nudes. Each new project brings new challenges and nerve wrecking stages. That's what I like about it!
Topical event: Winner of the international Woodcarving Competition 2010. Published in woodCARVING (a GMC publication), december 2010.