Nando Kallweit is a German sculptor working in bronze and oak. As a young boy, he was inspired by the beauty and antiquity of a bust of Nefertiti housed in the Egyptian Museum of Berlin. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, his new-found freedoms allowed him to travel to Egypt and develop his belief in the basic strength and pride inherent in humanity. His sculptures seek to emphasize this through elongated forms and upright postures. He reduces the figures to simple gestures and movements creating sculptures with a wonderful interplay between the archaic and the modern; between art and design.

His work is created using the“lost wax process,”wherein a cast is made and the bronze is poured into the cast. This process allows for the artist to create intricate and finely detailed sculptures. Kallweit works both in large and small scale, and has created installations that are full immersive.

Kallweit is inspired by seemingly disparate cultures. The strength of ancient Egyptian sculptures, the dynamic forms of the modern Cubist movement, and an observation of contemporary life are all seen in aspects of his sculptures. Combined with a considerate approach, Kallweit renders archaic materials, such as blackened oak and bronze, with a palpable sensitivity. These forms are varied tirelessly in his creations.

Close observation of each piece leads to the discovery of unexpected details in the design which conveys emotional robustness. Kallweit moves continuously while creating his sculptures. He works with intensity and energy that he must balance with a sensitive and considerate approach. Kallweit’s work is permeated by a longing for the unknown, the elusive, the divine, and the spiritual. The visual impact of his metal sculptures leaves a deep impression on the viewer. Nando’s work has been exhibited across Europe and is held in many private collections. He has produced a number of large scale permanent installation pieces for German municipalities and museums.