Yosef Drenters
(1931 – 1983)
Yosef Gertrudis Drenters was a Canadian Postwar & Contemporary artist born in Poppel, Belgium. Initially studying for the priesthood, he later relocated to Oyama, British Columbia, in 1951, where he would go on to pursue his artistic career.
Drenters’ academic background in the classics and his interest in medieval architecture significantly influenced his work as a sculptor. From 1951 to 1962, he held various jobs while also dedicating time to painting and experimenting with sculpture. His sculptures often incorporated found materials, such as old beams, tree trunks, farm implements, and semi-precious stones, reflecting his creative exploration of natural and repurposed elements.
Drenters’ work was featured in the EAG and he exhibited with the Royal Canadian Academy (RCA) in 1963, marking a significant moment in his artistic journey.



