Stephan Balkenhol

We are delighted to announce an exhibition of new works by Stephan Balkenhol, one of the most prominent contemporary sculptors.

Since over 30 years Balkenhol breathes new life into figurative sculpture, exploring the complexities of the human condition, delving deep into the realms of identity, individuality, and the interplay between humanity and the world we inhabit. Strikingly present and imbued with a timeless quality, his works bring together the familiar and the enigmatic, creating a powerful visual dialogue that both challenges and engages the viewer.

Known for his wooden sculptures whose figures are meticulously carved out of a single tree trunk and lit by color, Balkenhol’s work is characterized by his mastery of woodcarving techniques. The resulting figures – men and women at times with ironic animal features – radiate a sense of liveliness and individuality. This ability to infuse his sculptures with distinct emotions and personalities has earned him international recognition and widespread acclaim. The materiality of the wood is always present with the sculptor's gestures remaining visible, accentuating the vitality of the surface. Inspired by the works of great masters such as Wilhelm Lehmbruck, Honoré Daumier, and Auguste Rodin, Balkenhol expertly captures the essence of human existence in an era dominated by technology and digital representation.

"The sculptures presented in this exhibition reflect my ongoing exploration of the human form and its relation to the surrounding environment," says Balkenhol. "Through my work, I aim to evoke a sense of introspection and contemplation, inviting viewers to question their own place in the ever-evolving tapestry of contemporary existence."

Stephan Balkenhol (born in Fritzlar, Hessen in Germany in 1957) has shown extensively in European and American galleries and museums.  His works are in the collections of some of the world's most important museums, including the Hirschhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, the Tate Gallery in London, the Museum für Moderne Kunst in Frankfurt, the Nationalgalerie in Berlin, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice and the National Museum of Art in Osaka, Japan.