“For me it is a given that we are, as human, part of the big picture. No hierarchy - everything in nature has equal value. In my sculptures, forms of the human body naturally take shape in vegetal organic form.”

Dutch sculptor Riëlle Beekmans explores the relationship between humans and the natural world - often using body parts to mimmic natural forms. Hundreds of lips become budding flowers, pointed tongues become seductive cacti, her own face becomes the individual drupalets of a raspberry. The possibilities are endless, comical and sometimes a little unsettling.

In 2017…”I was here for the first time and I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the garden. What a beautiful place to live and work. Absolutely a fairy tale. Especially for the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden I made small tree spirits. Small happy clay creatures. Made from my kiss, a symbol of love. The antlers are made from clay pinches and the wings also come from the shape of my hands.”

‘Kusjes’ 2024

For the second time at The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden, Beekmans has planted a fresh set of ceramic ‘Kusjes’ (Kisses) in its’ lush mossy banks. One would be forgiven for thinking that a new species of fungi had taken over, after all, the Sculpture Garden is home to fantastic and unusual flora from across the globe. However, on closer inspection, visitors are surprised with a field of unique porcelain lips by the Dutch artist.

In 2018, an installation of ‘Kusjes’ was nestled into The Garden and by popular demand, has returned for our current 2024 season. It encompasses almost two thousand individual ceramic sculptures that form the final installation. Inspired by a sprinkling of spring flowers, ‘Kusjes’ acts as a reminder of the joy nature it can give us; as well as bringing a light and playful sense of humour to the garden.

To accompany the installation, individual ‘Kusjes’ are available to purchase from the gallery reception, or through our webstore (click the link below).