Ghent-based artist Conrad Willems boasts a series of toy block sculptures "inside a Victor Bourgeois modernist villa in Brussels." Each creative token in the exhibition is a direct reference to the artist's childhood. In particular, the composition of the artworks is inspired by the theories and teaching of Frederich Fröbel — a respected German pedagogue from the 19th century. Conrad Willems admits that his toy block sculptures are influenced by Fröbel's wooden construction block— a gift that was given to the young artists by his grandmother.
One of the most noteworthy pieces in the exhibition is the 'Construction IV' — an almost three-meter tall architectural toy block sculpture made with self-supporting stone blocks. Willems opens up to Dezeen about his creative process and specifies how the act of engaging with modular brick toys in his younger years has shaped his understanding and artistic processes.
Architectural Toy Block Sculptures
Conrad Willems's Sculptures Reference the Artists' Childhood
Trend Themes
1. Architectural Toy Block Sculptures - Creating sculptures using toy blocks as an artistic medium.
2. Art Inspired by Childhood - Artists drawing inspiration from their childhood experiences and memories.
3. Influence of Frederich Fröbel - Artists embracing the theories and teachings of Frederich Fröbel in their creative process.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Sculpture - Opportunity for artists to explore unconventional materials and mediums in their artwork.
2. Education and Child Development - Opportunity to incorporate creative play and toys into early childhood education.
3. Interior Design and Architecture - Opportunity to incorporate toy block sculptures as unique and interactive architectural elements.