Biography

Bert Mertens was born in Leuven (Belgium) in 1955. His initial vocation, architecture, was thwarted by his family, who encouraged him to study Law. After three years, a serious accident led to a long stay in hospital. He changed course and became a nurse. After his studies he worked among others in the operating theatre, in the intensive care unit, and in the burn center. Later he worked for different multinationals in the Benelux. He became responsable for sales and did training of young doctors in new laparoscopic techniques.

After a long career in the medical field, he decided at the moment of his retirement to return to the basics. In August 2018, he discovered oil painting. This is the beginning of a self-taught artistic career.

His work demonstrates a high level of technical skill, but above all an attentive presence in the world and a sensitivity to the beauty of the banal. From appearances he brings out a complexity, a brillance or a humour that has remained unnoticed.

In November 2024, he receives the Jos Albert Prize from the Royal Academy of Belgium. This prize is awarded every year to a contemporary figurative painter. Applications may come from any country in the European Union. The jury is made up of Belgian artists and art critics who are members of the Arts Section of the Royal Academy of Belgium.

Two of his paintings hang in the private part of the palace of the Belgium's sovereigns, King Philip and Queen Mathilde.