Bert van Loo got his education mainly at the Gerrit Rietveld Academy and studied a period at the Royal College of Art in London. Travelled extensively to north and South America, all of Europe, China and Japan, won a few prizes, got a few grants and did about 20 large scale commissions. His work is represented by more than 25 museums, as well as many private collections. He exhibited almost everywhere and had one retrospective: “BERT VAN LOO – Naturalezas cruzadas – Cutting trough nature – Dwars door de natuur” at the Fundacion Centro Nacional del Vidrio, Segovia, Spain.” (With catalogue.)

The art critic writer about his work ….. I have never asked him what he is trying to say in his sculpture, or even why he uses glass or stone. His work is self-evident, and that is probably the most important criteria for quality. Sculpture should define, determine a space, and each of his monumental works does that in a wholly different manner. ….The glass is a real presence because of its reflection, but also in the soft tint that is produced when the glass sheets are stacked and yet a high degree of transparency. He often seeks out combinations with other materials, like stone to create a contrast; you experience a huge difference in the densities of the mass…. The result is a remarkable reversal of the traditional sculpture. Despite a characteristic, almost floating appearance, the earthly connection is always there.

Bert van Loo is on a trip in China as an artist in residence.
“It is an experience you will carry with you for the rest of your life. It will change you and enrich you. Back home you will be another person. Each voyage is full of surprises, this is not different in Xiamen, but the stay here is a clear example of a very positive experiences.

As a result I created a few new sculptures – with a lot of help – made out of local granite and float glass. For me the works are full of Chinese emotions which I like to share with you.”

Gallery