Maarten Bel (1987) is a multidisciplinary artist with a socially and educationally oriented practice. From Het Belhuis — his workspace in the heart of Rotterdam-West — he develops projects at the intersection of art and education. Het Belhuis serves as a base for both his own work and collaborations with the local community. Bel moves between diverse cultural contexts: from the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam and the VPRO (De Cadeaufabriek) to the neighbourhood community centre around the corner. His work is characterised by playfulness, a sense of wonder, and a strong engagement with the world around him. Recurring fascinations — such as rats, branches, and inventing gifts — form unexpected entry points to larger questions about humanity and imagination. In addition to his own practice, Bel is affiliated with the Willem de Kooning Academy as a lecturer.(source: website Maarten Bel Het Belhuis)