Darwin, Sinke & van Tongeren

Jaap Sinke and Ferry van Tongeren are Dutch artists who have chosen taxidermy as their medium to express art. Full of humor, they chose to include Charles Darwin as the co-founder of their group, which explains the presence of his name in their artist name.

Based near Amsterdam, they are inspired by 17th century Dutch painters, especially Jan Weenix, Melchior d’Hondecoeter and Adriaen van Olen. They create 3D photos, like the great masters, which portray abandoned magnificent creatures, who continue to exist due to their talent and finesse. Their common belief in the creator of Nature, is the basis of this project.

Their creation process demands patience and dedication. indeed, before being frozen on the spot by their camera, the animals are washed so that they are clean and bright. They are then immersed into water and create a sort of a unique aquatic ballet. The photographs capture the magic and poetry of the moment.

Their first photo series was appreciated and purchased very quickly by collectors, including Damien Hirst, who also bought their entire series. Their success encouraged Sinke and van Tongeren to explore this concept even further and put more effort into creation exposure, as the title suggests, is "Unknown".