David (Devi) Khmaladze (Tbilisi, 1964) is a Georgian sculptor and restorer based in Antwerp, whose work finds an exceptional balance between classical sculptural tradition and contemporary experimentalism. His oeuvre reflects a profound mastery of craftsmanship and a constant urge for innovation. In each sculpture you feel an almost tangible warmth, a rare combination of technical virtuosity and human emotion.

Born into a family of artists in Tbilisi, Khmaladze grew up in an environment that ignited his passion for the visual arts at an early age. He began his education at the Iakob Nikoladze Art College and continued his studies at the Faculty of Sculpture of the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. During his academic years he participated in an exchange program that took him to the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague — an experience that broadened his perspective and deepened his style.

In the early 1990s, Khmaladze moved to Belgium, where he collaborated with the Belgian sculptor Johannes Gert. Shortly afterwards, he opened his own gallery and studio, Atelier Devka, in the historic heart of Antwerp. Since then, this studio has not only been his workplace, but also a lively cultural meeting place for exhibitions, workshops and artistic collaborations.

As an artist, Devi Khmaladze is known for his experimental approach and the use of mixed techniques and diverse materials — from stone and bronze to wood and modern composites. His sculptures are often powerful and expressive, but never cold; they carry a soft, human energy that invites silence and reflection. Each work is the result of a profound process of research, feeling and shaping, in which he considers sculpture as a “journey without end point”.

In addition to his autonomous work, Khmaladze is also active as an art restorer. His mastery of classical techniques and sense of detail make him a much sought-after expert for the restoration of historical monuments. He regularly collaborates with the renowned Belgian restoration company Monument – ​​Altri Tempi.

His artistic influence extends beyond Belgium. Khmaladze has represented Georgia with major public works, such as the monuments Prometheus (2007, Borjomi) and Medea with the Golden Fleece (2007, Batumi). His work has been included in international art fairs, galleries and exhibitions in Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Germany, among others. His sculptures are part of public and private collections, including the Ton Schulten Museum in the Netherlands.

What distinguishes Khmaladze as a sculptor is his ability to combine classical formal language with a contemporary soul. His work recalls archetypal human themes — strength, vulnerability, transformation — and does so in a visual language that is simultaneously timeless and modern.

David Khmaladze lives and works in Antwerp, where he opens his studio to artistic dialogue, generational transfer and creation — true to his roots, but always with an eye on what is still possible.