Dutch cultural exhibitions showcase sand sculptures and futuristic plant models

From mid‑July 2026 the historic Kasteel Warmelo in Diepenheim hosts an international sand‑sculpture exhibition. Ten artists from the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, the Czech Republic and the United States have created works using roughly 2,000 m³ of river sand, displayed in the castle’s renowned gardens.

At the same time, the town of Haelen opens its Plantmodelweek, running from 18 to 26 July. Visual artist Henri van Nuenen invites the public into his “inspiratietuin” and adjacent plant station to see fictitious future‑plant models, hand‑drawn studies, large‑scale digital drawings and experimental sketches. The daily open‑door programme runs from noon to 5 p.m. and includes informal guided tours.

Both events highlight contemporary Dutch cultural activity, blending historic settings with modern artistic experimentation.