The Power of Paper 2023

“The Power of Paper” is an exhibition dedicated to paper, featuring Belgian artist Guy Leclef and Dutch artist Johannes Schoonhoven.

Johannes Schoonhoven (1975), also the grandson of Jan Schoonhoven (1914-1994), turns paper into papier-mache to create his works. His reliefs are made of pre-pigmented papier-mache mixed with plaster and pigments. His work is based on lines, squares, light, shadow and repetition. The material is worked by hand and with painting knives, creating patterns and fine line structures. The reliefs are made in peace and quiet and require patience during the drying process of several weeks. It is nature that gives the finishing touch and chooses the final shape. There are no identical works because each work of art always dries in different shapes.

Guy Leclef (1962) is a paper artist who works with remnants and leftovers of paper and cardboard. Rhythm, balance and aesthetics play a leading role in the creations with which he has developed his own unconventional technique. The artist is constantly looking for new interpretations and forms of expression to break new ground with paper. By tearing, folding, kneading, cutting, colouring, impregnating and pasting his material, he has developed an impressive range of styles and ideas. His oeuvre is a constant search for the essence of things. His signature attention to detail transforms his papercraft into an experience. Guy Leclef’s handling of his medium – as if it were paint – shows a playful virtuosity and never lapses into boredom. We call it poetic recycling.