Originally from Holland, Gert has lived In Yorkshlre for 19 years. Entirely self taught, he prefers to call himself a stone carver rather than a sculptor . This Is not only because the sole medium he works In is stone, but also due to hls craft and workmanship oriented approach.

Although Gert would say that hls prImary Influence Is that of church or ecclesiastical art - and what better place for this than Yorkshlre - hls Buddhas and other exotic pieces indicate a broader Interest In other forms of "devotional" art as well.

This adventurous approach has led to !the creation of a highly varied body of works, Gert does not confine himself to one distinct area. The mediaeval flavour of much of hls work Is often taken over by a flight Into the modern or more ancient.