Queen Máxima as a fondant display piece at CAKE & BAKE 2026

Cake artist Michael Wehrmann creates life-size figure out of fondant.

Numerous highlights have already been confirmed for CAKE & BAKE 2026 at Messe Dortmund—including the popular live act “Bernd das Brot” as well as appearances by decorating queen Tine Wittler and “Das große Promibacken” contestant Alexander Mazza. Now another special highlight is being added: From March 28 to 29, cake artist Michael Wehrmann will present a life-size sculpture of Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

Dortmund, March 16, 2026 – As part of the International SugarArt Collaboration at CAKE & BAKE – this year under the theme “Royal Tea Time” – Michael Wehrmann is creating a life-size sculpture of Queen Máxima made of sugar for the exhibition, designed as a standalone showpiece. The International SugarArt Collaboration is an art project under the artistic direction of Doreen Zilske. Around 48 sugar artists from 15 countries—including Hungary, France, and Ireland—will present their individual interpretations of a royal tea time. The special highlight of the exhibition is the showpiece of Queen Máxima. Initial sketches of the royal display piece have already been finalized: a sapphire-blue, long, and elegant gown, along with the iconic sapphire-blue tiara and matching earrings, form the essential elements of her royal identity.

An Artistic Highlight in the World of Cake Art
Michael Wehrmann is an internationally acclaimed cake artist. Trained as a pastry chef, the Dutch artist discovered his passion for artistic design at an early age and, following his breakthrough in 2022, quickly established himself on the international cake art scene. A multiple gold medalist and recipient of numerous nominations at prestigious competitions, he impresses with his extraordinary precision and expressiveness. His work has been featured in international publications, and he has served as a jury member at the French Cake Design Championships. His focus lies on detailed, sculptural works made of modeling chocolate, combined with a broad technical repertoire that allows him maximum creative freedom in realizing his visionary projects. This special exhibition piece is made possible through a collaboration with Messe Dortmund and the manufacturer Saracino.

Elegant Confectionery: Michael Wehrmann Honors Queen Máxima

After carefully considering various royal figures—including Empress Elisabeth of Austria—the decision on his subject was quickly made: As a Dutch artist living in France, Michael Wehrmann chose his own queen. “It is a great honor for me to create my own queen. Queen Máxima is a beloved and respected personality, not only in the Netherlands but also internationally, including in Germany. She represents elegance, strength, and warmth, and I wanted to translate those qualities into an edible sculpture,” he emphasizes.

Ticket shop open: Combo ticket for CAKE & BAKE and CREATIVA

Fans of cake art can now secure their tickets—as a convenient combo ticket: With this ticket, they not only have access to CAKE & BAKE, but also to CREATIVA, which is taking place at the same time.
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