"Helotrophe" – Venske & Spänle

For more than twenty years now, the artist duo has been working in a classical, sculptural style, primarily with white Laas marble. Their work centres on exploring the interaction between people, space and sculpture. It is characterised by organic forms and flowing structures that are reminiscent of natural phenomena. This design alludes both to growth and transformation in nature, as well as to destruction and the traces left by human intervention in the ecological fabric. In addition to natural stone, the artist couple also utilise everyday objects such as Tetra Paks, which, as artefacts of the Anthropocene, document the present day. This combination bridges the gap between traditional materials and contemporary issues. The works thus become testaments to an era in which consumer culture, resource consumption and ecological responsibility are inextricably intertwined. Venske & Spänle combine technical precision with conceptual clarity. Their sculptures defy a purely static interpretation; instead, they intervene in spaces and perception, inviting viewers to see familiar surroundings in a new light. Julia Venske (born 1971 in Berlin) and Gregor Spänle (born 1969 in Munich) trained as sculptors at the Vocational School for Stone Carving in Laas (South Tyrol) and subsequently received a scholarship to study at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Melbourne (Australia). Since 1997, their works have been regularly featured in international exhibitions, including in New York, Atlanta, Zurich and Sydney.

Last edited on 15.09.2026