20 Years of Sculpture Network: Martine Seibert-Raken and the Power of Communities

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we are delighted to share the stories of 20 remarkable members whose paths have crossed with ours and whose journeys have left a lasting impact. Sculpture Network takes pride in supporting artists who draw deeply from their environments and communities, weaving creativity into the fabric of their lives.

Among them is Martine Seibert-Raken, an artist whose career seamlessly blends natural inspiration, architectural precision, and an exceptional ability to connect with people through her work.

Born in Lüneburg and raised across Algeria, the Netherlands, and Germany, Seibert-Raken’s life has always been intertwined with contrasts. Her childhood in Algeria, marked by the rugged landscapes of the Atlas mountains and the Mediterranean coastline, left an indelible mark on her artistic sensibility. Later, her family’s move to the structured landscapes of the Netherlands sharpened her awareness of the tension between chaos and order—a recurring theme in her work. These early experiences inspired her lifelong fascination with fractures and imperfections as creative opportunities.

Seibert-Raken’s formal artistic foundation began with an apprenticeship in woodworking, which taught her the importance of materiality and craftsmanship. She then pursued architecture, developing a keen eye for space, perspective, and the interplay of form and function. This unique combination of technical skill and conceptual vision laid the groundwork for her installations, which transform spaces into immersive experiences that invite reflection.

In 2017, Seibert-Raken’s artistic journey reached a pivotal moment when she became part of Sculpture Network. By then, she had relocated to Unkel am Rhein, drawn to the region’s interplay of water, stone, and light, which echoed the landscapes of her childhood. It was during a walk through Unkel that she noticed the abandoned Hotel Löwenburg, a decaying structure rich with untapped potential. On the very same day (“and it cannot be a coincidence”, she told us) she learned about Sculpture Network New Year’s event start’18—the International Celebration of Contemporary Sculpture on the social media page of a colleague. Until that day she didn’t know about the existence of this community of artists, art professionals and art lovers. “Sculpture Network opened up a world that I didn't realise I had been looking for”, she said.

The synergy between her vision and the program of this international event led her to submit a project that would breathe new life into the hotel. With only ten weeks to prepare, Seibert-Raken enlisted the help of Unkel’s residents. Together, they crafted an ambitious wire installation spanning 1,000 meters, transforming the hotel into a living art piece. The project was unveiled during start’18, drawing global attention as it was shared live alongside installations from artists around the world. This moment not only spotlighted Unkel but also underscored Seibert-Raken’s ability to unite art and community. “I look back on 2017 as the year in which I discovered not only my art, but also the power of community and networking.”

The success of her project brought unexpected opportunities. The European Cultural Centre (ECC) in Venice, also part of the start’18 event, took notice of her work. Seibert-Raken was invited to showcase her installations at the 2019 Biennale in the “Personal Structures” exhibition at Palazzo Mora, a milestone that significantly elevated her international profile.

“This journey—from the idea in front of the old Hotel Löwenburg to the invitation to Venice—was one big adventure, full of unexpected turns, encounters and incredible moments. Without Sculpture Network, which connected me to the world of international art, and without the support of the citizens of Unkel, none of this would have been possible”, she reflected.

Since 2019 Seibert-Raken is working on an ongoing series, Once upon a Time…, that exemplifies her artistic philosophy. Her installations are poetic explorations of places, integrating history, nature, and societal questions. The series has grown to encompass works that examine the relationship between humans and their environments, blending vibrant Pop Art aesthetics with quiet, reflective depth.

Thanks to winning the ArteLaguna Special Prize in 2024, her upcoming project in Mandranova, Sicily, will draw inspiration from the region's rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, adding a compelling new chapter to her ever-evolving artistic journey. For this chapter of Once upon a Time... she will tailor the narrative of the series to this particular environment. The installations will capture the power and rhythm of this place—while leaving viewers wondering: What does it mean to feel a connection to nature, the earth and the history of a land?

Reflecting on Martine Seibert-Raken’s journey, it is clear that her membership in Sculpture Network has been a catalyst for growth, visibility, and new opportunities. From her first community-driven project in Unkel to the international stage in Venice, her story exemplifies the power of artistic vision paired with collaboration and support. Her work not only enriches the art world but also reminds us of the transformative power of creativity when it is shared with others.

 

Ilaria Specos wrote the text in English.