Herman van Bergen is a Curaçao-based visual artist known for transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. His work—ranging from paintings to sculptures and large-scale installations—challenges perceptions of beauty, often incorporating unconventional materials. In 2016, he received the prestigious Cola Debrot Award for his contributions to art, education, and cultural awareness, and in 2023, he was honored with the International Sculpture Award.

Van Bergen is particularly recognized for his ‘sumpiña’ (thorn) art, which earned a nomination for the Curaçao Innovation Prize in 2003. His unique sculptures and lamps, crafted from local thorn bushes, have been exhibited in prestigious galleries across Curaçao, the Caribbean, South America, the U.S., and Europe. A major milestone in his career is The Cathedral of Thorns, an immersive installation showcasing his mastery of natural materials.

His work has been widely celebrated, with notable pieces such as El Indjan, displayed at the Art Prize exhibition in Michigan, and Harvest, featured at Landhuis Bloemhof. In 2013, his sculpture Islas Inutiles gained attention during the Tropical Kingdom exhibition at Museum De Fundatie. That same year, he presented The Kiss, a sumpiña sculpture, as an official gift to King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. His 2016 overview exhibition, Earth Link, celebrated his artistic legacy.