International Innovator Award for Herman van Bergen
Acclaimed visual artist Herman van Bergen (Curacao, Dutch Caribbean) received the 2022 Innovator in the Arts Award.
The International Sculpture Center (ISC) is a member-supported, nonprofit organization founded in 1960 to champion the creation and understanding of sculpture and its unique, vital contribution to society. Members include sculptors, collectors, patrons, architects, developers, journalists, curators, historians, critics, educators, foundries, galleries, and museums.
The ISC has announced Herman van Bergen as the 2022 Innovator Award recipient. ISC describes Herman van Bergen as a versatile visual artist who resides on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. His work invites viewers to recognize the beauty in what is usually deemed ugly.
“His sculptures made of thorns of the Acacia Tortuosa, create unique atmospheres in dozens of homes, offices and public buildings. They have often been selected for prestigious art exhibitions in Curaçao, the Caribbean, South America, the United States and Europe.
The Cathedral of Thorns is a building-sized illuminated labyrinth, and its walls are made of thorns of the Acacia tortuosa. Visitors are invited to walk through its corridors and experience an artistic journey through a troublesome history toward a bright future; the hostile yet beautiful thorns represent both sides. The walls have niches that hold contemporary art objects by guest artists, expressing humankind’s ability to change, share and collaborate through creativity.”
The International Sculpture Center (ISC) presented the award to Herman van Bergen at the Night of Excellence. Herman van Bergen traveled to New York for the official ceremony. Attached to the award is a $1,000 cash prize. In addition, Van Bergen receives a yearlong professional ISC membership, recognition on sculpture.org and Sculpture Magazine, and a virtual event to present his project to the ISC Sculpture Community.
In 2016 van Bergen received the Cola Debrot Prize for the visual arts. Since its inauguration in February 2020, the Cathedral of Thorns has hosted numerous visitors, including members of the Dutch royal family. In November 2022, Princess Beatrix was a guest. In February 2023, the Cathedral was honored with a visit by King Willem-Alexander, Queen Maxima, and Princess Amalia.
The ISC Innovator Award recognizes the creative innovation of individuals, organizations, or collectives who develop new ideas and work to improve and expand the field of contemporary sculpture. The recipient of this award demonstrates a commitment to their community and effects social change through their work.
Click this link to see Herman van Bergen’s profile in Curaçao Art.
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