Ger Dekkers
author · photographer · illustrator
Gerard (Ger) Dekkers (1929–2020) was a Dutch pioneer of landscape photography and a graphic designer. Born in Borne and raised in Hengelo, he studied at the Academy of Art and Industry (AKI) in Enschede from 1950 to 1954, where he obtained a diploma in graphic design. He initially established himself as a graphic designer in Enschede, working with partners like Kees van Barneveld and Chris Hein. From the late 1960s, Dekkers shifted his focus toward autonomous landscape photography, characterized by an interest in 'designed' landscapes—polders, dikes, and man-made structures. His work is noted for its conceptual approach, often presenting photographs in series or squares to emphasize geometric patterns and human influence on nature. He lived in Dwarsgracht near Giethoorn from 1973 until his death. His works are held in major collections including the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, Kröller-Müller Museum, and the Nederlands Fotomuseum.[1,2,3]
- landscape perception
- man-made landscapes
- polders
- geometry
- abstraction
Books
Works by Ger Dekkers
- 1975 Landschapswaarneming Perception du paysage Landscape perception The primary book identified in the request.
- 1977 Planned landscapes. 25 horizons Exhibition catalog/monograph.
- 1986 New Dutch Landscapes Monograph.
- 1990 Zee-lucht-land Monograph.
- 2004 Landschapswaarnemingen. Een retrospectief Retrospective monograph.
Exhibitions
- 1971 Sonsbeek Buiten de Perken (Beyond Limits)
- 1972 Solo exhibition
- 1969 Ateliers 6 (Studio Exhibitions)
- 1977 Documenta 6