Bruno Mertens

Curriculum Vitae

Bruno Mertens, born in 1968, lives and works in Wondelgem (Ghent), Belgium.
He studied ceramics and printmaking at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ghent.
Afterwards, he explored a wide range of materials and techniques, with ceramics now holding a prominent place in his practice.

Bruno has successfully taken part in several ceramics competitions. His body of work includes numerous solo and group exhibitions, both in Belgium and abroad.

The recent exhibitions include two solo shows:
If Walls Could Speak at KOVE in Antwerp (2024) and Layers of Identity at Parce Art Initiative in Ghent (2023).

He also took part in several group exhibitions.
In 2025, his work was shown at the Carmelite Monastery in Ghent, Noir de Noir in Ostend, the Watou Art Foundation, and Galerie Adrienne D in Ypres.
In 2024, he exhibited at De Weverij in Evergem, Raam103, and Galerie Ap’art in Ghent.
In 2023, he participated in exhibitions at Parce Art Initiative in Ghent, the FIA Barcelona Art Fair, and Noir de Noir in Ostend.

Inspiration

Bruno Mertens grounds his work in the aesthetics and power of the small. He brings together countless unique ceramic blocks to form organic and conceptual constellations.
Sometimes the blocks are tightly clustered into a compact mass, sometimes arranged more openly, and occasionally they rest loosely on nails. This allows them to be moved or removed, keeping the whole composition voluntarely open to change.

The individual elements create a rhythm in which the singular does not disappear but instead gains meaning within the larger structure.

A dialogue and a sense of movement arise between the elements, inviting the viewer to uncover their own narrative. Themes such as individuality versus collectivity, strength and vulnerability, and the ever‑changing nature of existence are present throughout his work. Mertens is an inspiring artist with a strong conceptual sensibility, where light and shadow contribute to the sculptural expression of his pieces.

Technique

He chooses to manipulate his ceramics as little as possible and to present them unglazed, allowing the natural texture and pure character of the clay to fully emerge.

His recent works are created on a canvas surface, where coloured clay fragments are carefully affixed to the fabric. As the light shifts, the shadows change with it, becoming an integral and dynamic part of the overall concept.