Bianca Runge - Visual Artist
Born in Naarden and raised in Huizen, North Holland, Bianca Runge's childhood was closely intertwined with the rapid development of Huizen. Growing up in the very first residential block of this burgeoning town, she experienced the transformation of reclaimed land into bustling neighborhoods. Her young explorations often led her to the streets, where she sought out captivating treasures – coins, screws, and beads – which she collected in her pockets. These found objects became the raw materials for a unique world she would later craft through her art.
Bianca's artistic journey led her to the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten Arnhem (now ARTEZ), where she honed her creative talents in the Department of Fine Arts. Her dedication and talent have earned her prestigious grants, including the startstipendium, two basic stipendia, and an ontwikkelbijdrage, all from the Fonds BKVB, now known as the Mondriaan Fund. Additional material allowances came from Arnhem and SBKM (Vleeshal). More recently, Bianca participated in the innovative pilot program Leeuwenpoort, a master's art program situated in Zeeland.
Inspired by her upbringing in Huizen and her fascination with found objects, Bianca's artistic vision has evolved into a captivating exploration. Each aluminum tree trunk becomes a blank canvas upon which she "paints" with beads, drawing inspiration from the colors of old carpets. Beads, chains, and remnants of old wedding dresses or second-hand luxury items cascade over the tree trunks, creating intricate patterns that seem to search for vulnerabilities, akin to moss and parasites. These tree trunks become individual storytellers, silent witnesses to a world where trees often give way to economic interests. Just as real trees communicate through an invisible network, they serve as a layered metaphor for the complex interplay between humanity, nature, and cultural decay. This imagery is Bianca's powerful medium to confront viewers with the consequences of industrialization and human activity on our natural environment.
Influenced by artists like Stanley Brown, Bianca found the freedom to measure the world in meters and steps, enabling her to visualize her own artistic discoveries and realities. Her art is her response to a society in which she grapples with feelings of powerlessness, a society she is an integral part of and navigates on her terms. Crafting her own world, she provides her unique perspective on our consumer-driven culture, fostering awareness and inviting collaboration to build a more humane society. Her intriguing approach includes involving others in her art, allowing them to collaborate on her tree trunks during festivals and workshops, making the audience integral to the creative process.
Bianca's artistic journey has seen both peaks and challenges. In 2008, she reached her zenith, garnering recognition with features in prestigious publications like Kunstbeeld and the Financial Daily. Her works found a home in renowned galleries such as Cokkie Snoei and Galerie vd Berge. However, the global financial crisis disrupted the art world, leading to the perception of art as a niche interest. In response, Bianca initiated her own projects, including "Museum Le Secet" and her artist collective, tirelessly promoting the work of others and the arts. Now, she's returning to focus on her personal artistry, eager to share her creations with a wider audience beyond provincial boundaries.
Bianca Runge remains an ardent collector, scouring thrift stores and online marketplaces for beads, carpets, and other discarded luxury items that infuse her artworks with a blend of enchantment and dystopia. Her deep connection to nature prompted her to leave the urban center behind and settle in Zeeland, where serenity and space have become nurturing wellsprings for her creativity.
Through her art, Bianca Runge invites viewers to consider the pressing issue of sustainability, a central theme in the contemporary world. Like many artists, she senses the urgency of contributing to a more sustainable planet through her work.
Currently, Bianca is immersed in addressing the pressing challenge of sustainability, a pivotal issue in our world today and a central theme in the art community. Her upcoming work aims to explore and highlight this theme. You can witness her creations at Manifestations during the Dutch Design Week.
As both a collector and an artist, Bianca continues to explore thrift stores and online marketplaces, unearthing unique materials that breathe life into her artwork. Her connection with nature led her to Zeeland, where tranquility and space have allowed her to nurture her creativity.
For further insights into Bianca Runge's art and upcoming exhibitions, please visit her website at [www.biancarunge.nl]. You can also connect with her on social media to stay updated on her latest projects and exhibitions.
