Collection: Michiel Folkers

Introduction

Michiel Folkers art stands out in the contemporary scene through his unique “teddybear gyotaku” technique — pressing actual discarded teddy bears into ink and onto canvas to create hauntingly playful impressions that blend childhood nostalgia with raw urban energy. This highly original signature has become the defining hallmark of Michiel Folkers artwork.

From layered street posters to powerful animal portraits and iconic figures, Michiel Folkers prints and originals transform the chaos of city walls into compelling, textured compositions. His distinctive fusion of graffiti roots, collage, and inventive printmaking has made Michiel Folkers one of the most exciting Dutch contemporary artists working today.

Biography

Michiel Folkers, also known as Gieler, was born in 1982 in Zeist, near Utrecht in the Netherlands. Growing up in the 1990s, he was drawn to skateboarding and the booming graffiti scene, particularly after his best friend moved to Amsterdam. He began spraying letters on walls in the late nineties and remained active in graffiti for years.

As he matured, the confrontational side of graffiti lost its appeal. Michiel transitioned into the friendlier world of street art, embracing stencils for their ability to deliver greater detail and speed. Alongside wall work, he started experimenting on canvas with a series called “Anti-Heroes” — portraits of lesser-known Dutch celebrities — which helped him gain early attention.

Fascinated by the layered, weathered posters on Amsterdam’s streets, Michiel began collecting damaged festival posters, fly-posters and found materials. Inspired by artists like Raymond Hains and Mimmo Rotella, he developed his signature collage technique, combining these authentic street elements with spray paint, acrylics, screen-printing and stencilling. His goal is always to create a harmonious whole from chaotic fragments, forcing the viewer to see one unified image rather than separate parts.

Since 2016, Michiel Folkers has concentrated on his celebrated Teddybear series. Using real discarded teddy bears pressed into ink, he produces unique, tactile impressions that balance innocence with urban grit. He works from his studio in the heart of Amsterdam and frequently travels to collect posters from different cities, continually evolving his practice while staying true to his street-art origins.

Achievements

• Teddybear Series: Creator of the distinctive Teddybear gyotaku technique, now his signature motif recognised by collectors worldwide.
• International Fairs: Exhibited at major events including SP-Arte (São Paulo), Artexpo New York, Art Market Hamptons, Carousel Fine Art (Miami) and the Affordable Art Fair.
• Street to Studio: Successful transition from Amsterdam graffiti artist to respected contemporary painter with a strong focus on sustainable street materials.
• Upcoming & Recent: Featured at NockNock Art Fair Amsterdam (March 2026) and represented by leading galleries including Soho Fine Art.
• Collector Demand: Michiel Folkers artwork and limited edition prints are sought after for their unique texture and urban character, appearing in private collections across Europe and the USA.

Brochures

Explore Michiel Folkers’ powerful ‘Animal Instinct’ collection — a striking series of Michiel Folkers artwork featuring majestic wildlife set against vibrant, layered street-poster backgrounds.

Animal Instinct

Hand-embellished studio editions showcasing bold animal portraits within dynamic urban collage compositions. A must-see for collectors of Michiel Folkers prints and originals.

Michiel Folkers Artwork & Prints

Michiel Folkers artwork masterfully blends urban collage with striking imagery. From powerful animal portraits and iconic figures to abstract compositions, each piece carries the authentic texture of the streets.

Limited edition Michiel Folkers prints capture the same energy and depth as his originals. Many are hand-embellished, making every print unique. Whether you collect bold wildlife pieces or colourful figurative works, Michiel Folkers prints offer a distinctive contemporary edge that enhances any interior.

Artistic Style & Technique

Michiel Folkers’ artistic style is defined by controlled chaos — transforming weathered street posters, spray paint, stencils and found objects into harmonious, visually compelling works. He deliberately restricts colour palettes to create order within the layered textures.

His innovative techniques include pressing real teddy bears into ink for unique impressions, as well as traditional collage and screen-printing. This approach gives Michiel Folkers artwork and Michiel Folkers prints an authentic, living character that reflects the ever-changing energy of the city.