Kelderman en Van Noort (KEVN), in Eindhoven, presents the second edition of Estafette, a duo exhibition featuring Rutger de Vries and Johannes Langkamp.
After a successful first edition, KEVN is continuing the relay. This time, two artists with roots in machine and installation art transformed the exhibition space into a lively workplace. During the two-week residency, Rutger and Johannes worked publicly on new work, which was then on display at Kelderman en van Noort for nine weeks. Together, they explored the power of collaboration, chance and the unexpected.
Estafette #2
What happens when two artists fascinated by chance, movement and control join forces? Rutger de Vries and Johannes Langkamp create work that focuses on the interplay between technique and spontaneity. Take, for instance, ‘Circle Sprayers’ by Rutger: a set of five fire extinguishers filled with paint, which – via a self-designed machine – spray colourful circles on a wall. Or ‘Same Same Same’ by Johannes, where a paint roller attached to a cordless drill is briefly activated to leave paint marks on surrounding surfaces.Their work is a search for “controlled chance”, where precision meets playfulness.
Rutger de Vries
Rutger de Vries (NL/DE), born in the Netherlands and currently living in Berlin, develops his own tools, techniques and instruments that form the basis of his visual work. His inventory includes computer-controlled machines and installations, in addition to spray paint and paint bombs. He focuses on techniques commonly used in graffiti, but is also interested in everyday materials from DIY stores, such as wall paint and construction materials. With these tools and materials, Rutger creates a unique framework in which control and chance coexist. By placing a strong emphasis on the use of machines and concealing his own identity, he questions the scope of his artistic authorship, while at the same time drawing on the visual language of anti-establishment movements.
Johannes Langkamp
Johannes Langkamp (DE/NL), raised in Germany and now based in Rotterdam, describes himself as an explorer of images. Driven by the question ‘What would happen if…?’, he goes on a voyage of discovery for new visual concepts. His work is characterised by a sense of playful curiosity and extensive research into movement and time, which he translates into kinetic models, videos, photography techniques and spatial installations. It is as if the artist’s thought process is playing out in front of you, not as a drawing on paper, but as a sketch unfolding in physical space. Through his experiments with materials, situations and presentations, Johannes aims to challenge our viewing behaviour and expand our perception of reality itself.
KEVN Estafette
In 2025, nine artists will have the opportunity to develop and present new work during Estafette, a series of four residencies and exhibitions at Kelderman en Van Noort in Eindhoven. This program is specifically aimed at artists with roots in graffiti and street art and revolves around collaboration, experimentation and knowledge sharing.
Estafette #2
Rutger de Vries and Johannes Langkamp
2 May – 6 July, 2025
keldermanenvannoort.nl
Photography: Chloe Alyshea
