Ceramics Exhibition 2026

This fall, Galerie Kempro will present its annual Ceramics Exhibition. The exhibition is part of Kunstsmullen 2026, the art route in De Kempen where art, landscape, and unique locations come together. This year, the route is centered on the theme of “Spatial Exploration.” This theme is combined with a unique phenomenon from landscape art: the folly (a surprising and often playful structure without a clear function), which serves as the source of inspiration for the participating artists.

For this edition, four guest ceramicists and the artists from Atelier Kempro explored this theme. Their diverse interpretations result in a multifaceted exhibition where architecture, landscape, form, and imagination converge. From architectural objects and geometric compositions to organic sculptures and experimental techniques: each artist gives shape to the theme in their own unique way, demonstrating just how rich and versatile ceramics can be.

Carla Dijk

Architecture has long been the source of inspiration for Carla Dijk’s work. Drawing on her fascination with houses and buildings, she creates her own imaginary world in which each ceramic object takes on a unique character. Her ceramic houses, constructed from slabs, are meticulously painted and glazed, bringing architecture and personal imagination together within the “Folies” theme; her objects seamlessly align with the concept of extraordinary structures that stimulate the imagination and invite viewers to discover new worlds.

Ans Pullens

With her sculptural ceramic paintings, Ans Pullens explores the interplay between material, light, and space. The subtle reliefs and carefully placed porcelain elements ensure that the work appears different from every viewing angle. In this way, the artwork seems to be in constant motion and invites the viewer to look at it again and again.

Nanda Verhaegh

In Nanda Verhaegh’s work, building from a strong foundation is central. By combining geometric shapes and varying their composition and color, she creates powerful porcelain objects in which simplicity and dynamism reinforce one another. The characteristic interplay of lines and the flowing color transitions bring movement to the often sleek forms. Her work invites the viewer to linger, make connections, and discover their own meaning. In this way, it offers a contemporary interpretation of the theme “Folies,” in which space, construction, and imagination converge.

Carla Wolfs

Carla Wolfs constantly pushes the boundaries of form, material, and technique. Inspired by nature, she creates abstract ceramic objects centered on flowing lines, open structures, and spontaneous textures. The unpredictable process of salt-firing plays a key role in this: fire, salt, and chance all contribute to the final result. Her work demonstrates how craftsmanship and experimentation reinforce one another. It is precisely the balance between control and letting go that makes each object unique and gives it its own character.

Atelier Kempro

The artists of Atelier Kempro were also inspired by the theme “Folies.” Drawing on their own ideas and visual language, they created ceramic objects in which architecture, fantasy, and imagination converge. The works range from playful structures to abstract sculptures and demonstrate how a single theme can lead to surprisingly diverse interpretations. The combination of the work by the guest ceramicists and the artists of Atelier Kempro creates an inspiring exhibition in which craftsmanship, experimentation, and creativity reinforce one another.

The ceramics exhibition will officially open on Wednesday, September 9 (2:00 p.m.) and on Sunday, October 4, at the start of Kunstsmullen (12:00 p.m.) in the presence of the artists. This exhibition runs through Sunday, November 1, 2026, and is open to the public.

📍 Location: Galerie Kempro, Dr. Ruttenpark 10, Sterksel
🚗 Parking: Laan van Providentia 3 (in front of the monastery); visitors with disabilities can park in front of the gallery
🕒 Gallery hours: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
💰 Admission: Free