Gert Wessels
Who says nature is binary?
Driven by chance and unpredictability, Utrecht-based artist Gert Wessels creates work that emerges intuitively and reactively. In his process, form takes precedence, without being guided by a rigid theoretical framework. Each object he creates becomes part of a continuous biographical narrative, with each project influencing the next, forming a larger, interconnected story. His colorful, vibrant objects may appear organic at first glance, but they contrast with nature through their unnatural colors and synthetic materials, such as polyurethane foam, fiberglass, and concrete canvas. These works reflect the increasing blurring of the line between the natural and the artificial, driven by technological advancements and sustainability considerations. Through his work, Wessels challenges traditional perceptions of functionality and aesthetics, inviting the viewer to reflect on the relationship between material, form, and the serendipities of the creation process. His practice is a continuous dialogue between these elements, emphasizing the unpredictable beauty of the unexpected.
This program is part of Queer Ecology x Gert Wessels. Queer ecology is a field that incorporates queer theory with ecology, environmentalism, social justice, and eco-feminism. It offers a lens to understand the fluidity and diversity in "human and non-human" realms, as well as fostering an inclusive relationship with nature that celebrates the broad spectrum and complexities in nature.
Photography by Scott Gorman
