Burgi's life began amidst turmoil on June 25th, 1939, in Vienna, born to Ukrainian nationals. His early childhood was marred by tragedy when, due to his father's involvement in publishing Ukrainian resistance materials, his parents were taken by German forces, leaving Burgi an orphan.
As World War II drew to a close, Burgi, suffering from tuberculosis, found refuge in Switzerland's clean air. His recovery was cut short as he was sent to a French boarding school in 1954, only to flee and embark on a solitary journey across France.
Returning to Switzerland, Burgi faced tuberculosis once more. It was during this convalescence that he discovered his passion for sculpting, leading him to study at the Lucerne School of Art and Design.
The Netherlands, particularly Utrecht, eventually became Burgi's home. Here, he created seven enduring sculptures—four gracing Utrecht and three beautifying Deventer. His work extended to religious art as well, crafting intricate wood carvings for church organs.
His inaugural sculpture, 'Boy with Cat', was unveiled in 1965 in Van Bjinkershoeklaan, Utrecht. His swan song in sculpture, 'Water Sculpture', emerged in 1989 in Brennebaarn, Utrecht.
In the autumn of his life, Burgi returned to the tranquility of Switzerland, where he passed away peacefully in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of art that continues to speak silently yet profoundly to passersby in the cities that were touched by his talent.
Sources. Story: Source story: Photos: Source photo: Het Utrechts Archief
