Artist statement.
The human brain, weighing just 1400 grams, is the foundation of who we are. It shapes our identity, drives our actions, and has fueled the evolution of a society filled with remarkable complexity and technology over the past 200,000 years. As a former neuroscientist, I am endlessly fascinated by this extraordinary organ that defines our daily lives. Through my work, I seek to capture its beauty by blending MRI scans, digital sculpting, 3D printing, and traditional craftsmanship to create brain sculptures that both captivate and educate.
The importance of the brain is underscored by its vulnerability. In the Netherlands alone, approximately 3.8 million people—about 25% of the population—suffer from brain disorders such as depression, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. These conditions profoundly impact the lives of those affected. Part of my art highlights this fragility, reminding us not to take a healthy brain for granted. I hope my work inspires people to prioritize their mental and physical health.
Another aspect that deeply intrigues me is the brain’s physicality and its connection to mortality. During my time as a neuroscientist, I participated in brain autopsies to collect MRI scans and tissue samples for research. Each time, I was struck by the moment the brain was carefully removed from the skull and held by the neuropathologist. While the intricate folds and structure of the brain exhibit universal patterns, each brain carries its own unique characteristics—size, shape, and weight. However, the act of holding a brain is only possible when a person has passed away. This duality—awe at the brain’s beauty and discomfort with the reminder of mortality—creates an emotional tension in my work.
To transform this tension into something life-affirming, I offer clients the opportunity to immortalize their own brain as a bronze sculpture, crafted from their MRI scan. This personalized art highlights the individuality of each person’s brain while celebrating the living, vibrant person behind it.
Through my art, I aim to share my fascination with the brain and raise awareness of its profound impact on individuals and society. The evolution of the human brain laid the foundation for modern civilization. Yet, while we have the power to create extraordinary things, we also risk causing irreversible damage to our world. By using our brains wisely and embracing their potential, I believe we can shape a better, more sustainable future.
