About the artist and his work

Cerberus’ activities are concentrated in the south of the Netherlands. He lives and works there and was born in a village close to Maastricht (1966). Also, he obtains his wood from this area, lime for his sculptures, cherry for his woodcuts. He studied graphic and monumental design at St Joost Art Academy, Breda. His identity lies hidden between the pseudonym Cerberus, due to the fact that some of his art-projects are not always amiable to governments or events. A prime example of this are his Theatre Of Pain Playing Cards, (forbidden in Russia) about the military and political conflict in the Caucasus. Other Cerberus art-projects have occured in Europe , in Portugal (2000) sculpture and graphic and an art book publication in Norway (2001).

Human tragedy lies at the heart of Cerberus’ graphic work. Large prints are cut out in wood and linoleum.Sharp lines of drawn heads and bodies appear in all their vulnerability. The figures are in stasis, entrapped in tension, waiting for something to pass or arrive. An ominous sphere is present in these works of Cerberus.

Also, there is a sense of foreboding in a his figurative sculptures of devils and demons. Inspired by the Gothic gargoyle, Cerberus brings these fable-like creatures to life in wood and steel. One sculpture has the demon squatting, back tense, mouth distorted by grimace, gigantic genitals. In complete contrast, the demon’s arms are relaxed, dangling from it’s squat body, waiting for what comes and goes. This image exemplifies the pent up tension between two wars, the menace of a great explosion. The strict line Christianity draws between good and evil finds a footing in Cerberus’ work. The observer is confronted with objects exuding power and sensuality, characteristics well known to mankind.

Breda, October 2005