FROM NOW until June 2006, the people of Loulé can admire sculptures by Dutch artist and sculptor Jits Bakker in an exhibition encompassing various locations throughout the city, promoted by Loulé Câmara.
In total, there are six bronze sculptures that can be found at Largo de S. Francisco (“Paradise Gardens”), Rua das Lojas (“Mother’s Happiness”), in front of Paços do Concelho (“Mother on Stairs”), next to Salão Nobre da Câmara Municipal (“Pallas Athene”), in Rua Maria Campina (“Hand Stand”) and in Avenida José da Costa Mealha (“Happiness”).
The female form is the central theme of many of his pieces, something which is not unrelated to the strong presence the sculptor’s mother enjoyed in his life. After the death of his father in the war, his mother became the head of the family and a strong influence in his life.Many residents and visitors to the Algarve will recognise the artist’s name for the prominent sculptures at Loulé roundabouts, “Sun Dancers” and “The Cyclist”, as well as in Quarteira, “The Fisherman”.
Jits Bakker’s studio and sculpture garden are located in De Bilt, Holland, but his 40 year career has seen him work all over the world. He also has studios in Almancil (Algarve) and in Malaga (Spain).
This exhibition pays tribute to Jits Bakker for his contribution to the borough of Loulé and to raise further awareness of his talent.
