Between seeking and finding

Exhibition “Tussen Zoeken & Vinden” (Between Seeking and Finding) in the Grote Kerk in Epe

From 12 July to 30 August. Open Tue–Fri, 13:30 – 16:00.

During the exhibition “Tussen Zoeken en Vinden” the work of visual artist Wiebe van Dingen and graphic designer Roel Ottow can be admired. Wiebe will be present regularly to give interested visitors an explanation of the works on show. The wooden sculptures are three-dimensional and can be viewed in the atmospheric setting of the Oude Kerk, in the middle of Epe. Visitors are welcome to ask questions and talk with him.

Wiebe can regularly be found in nature. Sometimes that is in the seclusion of the Veluwe forests and at other times in the space of the wide landscape beyond. It is precisely in that relaxed search for the unknown that the surprise lies, and that is what leads him to the wood with which he makes his sculptures. Under his hands, wounds in the wood turn into human figures, expressive characters who speak a language of their own that can be understood.

A characteristic of inspiration is that it opens your eyes and gives direction to the driving process of growth towards becoming who you are meant to be. Every person is unique and needs reference points along the way. Kairos means something like ‘the right word at the right moment in the place where it is needed.’ The longing for that moment makes a person a traveller, a pilgrim. Holy restlessness is the intrinsic motivation. Augustine, inspired by Psalm 62, wrote: “Our heart is restless until it rests in You.”

Wiebe van Dingen is married to Maaike, and together they have four children. He worked for 20 years in secondary education as an art teacher, 25 years as a goldsmith, and is currently writing his book. A visit to the Rijksmuseum drew his attention to the prayer nut, a precious travel altar originating from the first Christian community. That led to a remarkable creative process that has now lasted more than 40 years. A varied selection of prayer nuts is on show at this exhibition.

If you have a question for Wiebe, you can reach him via his website.