Born in Verona in a family of Lyric Singers. Educated in Classical Guitar and Lute in Belgium and France. During the 1990s, inspired by a major Italian expose' of Neo Expressionist work, he decided to dedicate himself to painting and the establishment of his Gallery/Studio in Bellagio on Lago di Como.

His artistic exploration is inspired by an empathy with principles of Bauhaus design where the craftman's role in greater geometric composition is recognised and revered. He also exemplifies an instinctive recognition of the principles of American 'Action Painting' where the act of expression is directed by the subconscious and the chance effects achieved from the manipulation of materials are explored.

Bekaert experiments with a combination of materials such as fine hand made papers soaked in pigment, shellac, wax and oil, glazed, folded and cut. Segmented and reconstructed, refused and misshapen, the ingredients reveal the poetry of their organic imperfection. The weaknesses and resistances inherent in his materials are of fascination to the artist in his meditative process. The use of symbols and materials recognise the cultural inheritance of our past and our present.

Double Click an image below for more details