Landhuis Bloemhof ‘Skina di Nepomuceno’
Landhuis Bloemhof is marking this year’s Siman di Kultura (Culture week) with the inauguration of the Skina di Nepomuceno, a permanent exhibition honoring all tin artists in Curaçao, especially Maximiliano Nepomuceno. Landhuis Bloemhof owns a large collection of Nepomuceno’s work.
Saturday, September 21, 2013 from 10 AM till 2 PM
Landhuis Bloemhof
Sta. Rosaweg #6
Curaçao.
t: (5 999) 737 5775
Nepomuceno
The Skina di Nepomuceno (Nepomuceno’s Corner) is meant as an hommage to all the tin artists of Curaçao, in Papiamentu called Blekero. The blekero’s were artisans, making house hold utensils from discarded tin cans. Maximiliano Nepomuceno (1908 – 1975) used the tin also to create small scenes originating from his fantasy or real life occurences. His skill was refined, original and marked by an incredible attention for detail. With a simple pair of scissors, an ice-pick and pincers he manipulated the tough tin, cutting, folding and braiding it. He would never braze it. He was introduced to the public by Pader Paul Brenneker (1912-1996). All ready during his life 3 large exhibitions were dedicated to Nepomuceno. His work is still shown in exhibitions all over the world in countries like the Netherlands and, more recently, the US. Together with Miss Lee, Ocalia and Olario, Nepomuceno is regarded as the most important naïve artists of the 20th century in Curaçao.
Bronze bust of Nepomuceno
Landhuis Bloemhof owns a large collection of Nepomuceno’s work, collected by the late May and Max Henriquez. This collection has now been given a permanent spot in the former artist studio of May Henriquez (1915-1999) as the Skina di Nepomuceno. Venezuelan sculptor Julio César Briceño has created a bronze bust of Nepomuceno in 2011. He is presenting this bust to Landhuis Bloemhof as a gift.
Demonstration
During the morning Mr. Palm, the most well known blekero in Curaçao, will give a demonstration of the craft. He will be assisted by a few of his pupils. The demonstration will take place directly after the opening ceremony.
It is also possible to give a donation to Curaçao Creations. This institute is preparing an educational course for schools on the various local crafts and old skills.
