Artist Ernst Gamperl’s “Tree of Life Project” comprises around 100 wooden objects – sculptural vessels in various shapes and sizes – made from the wood of a 230-year-old oak tree. The series is the outcome of years of exploring both material and form. At the outset of his career, Gamperl already developed his signature artistic language – one that goes beyond the usual rules and conventions. He has radically revitalised the historical technique of woodturning, updating it for the present day. The MK&G will be dedicating an exhibition to the wood turner from 22 November 2025 to 26 April 2026 as part of the series “Contemporary Craft”, which showcases the work of contemporary craftspeople.
The trunk of an old oak tree that was uprooted in a storm in Rott am Inn, Bavaria, in 2008, served Gamperl as the starting point for his extensive ten-year art project. In order to machine the mighty tree, which weighed around 33 tons, he expanded his workshop and designed new lathes. Gamperl sees his work as a “quiet, exploratory exchange with the tree”. Using specially developed tools, he pushes the material to its limits, deliberately incorporating, for example, the natural drying process of the wood as well as irregularities, cracks and fractures in the material. The elemental force of the material is expressed in archaic, almost monumental forms, which at the same time take on a delicate appearance thanks to their thin walls. Further processing of the surfaces – for example with lime and iron oxide – creates a unique texture that gives each piece its individual character.
The exhibition design is realised by Max Guderian.
The exhibition is supported by the Hans Brökel Foundation for Science and Culture and the MK&G Friends, the Justus Brinckmann Gesellschaft.
