Joanna De Vos - art historian and curator

Celebrating moments of connection amidst the powerful works of JAN FABRE: I AM BLOOD at Crux Galerie, . Curated by the inspiring Katerina Koskina, this exhibition beautifully captures Fabre’s ongoing exploration of the human body—its fragility and resilience.

Every exhibition is a conversation between artists and curators, and standing next to Katerina reminded me of the beauty within these exchanges. These collaborations bring the art to life, transforming spaces into places of dialogue. I’m deeply grateful for moments like these, where meaningful partnerships thrive, and I’m constantly inspired by such remarkable creatives.

JAN FABRE: I AM BLOOD
Crux Galerie, .
Closing 16 November 2024
More info: https://cruxgalerie.com/exhibition/i-am-blood/
Photo: Opening Night ‘JAN FABRE: I AM BLOOD’, Photo credit Studio Panoulis.

Reading Tip | Currently have my nose in a book ! – 'Mousganistan', the first book by the brilliant artist Mous Lamrabat. Born in a village in the north of Morocco and growing up in the Flemish city of Sint-Niklaas, Belgium, Lamrabat offers a bold exploration of identity, multiculturalism, and belonging.

His photography—whether it's a Tuareg headscarf made from IKEA bag straps or henna-adorned Wu-Tang logos — always visually striking and thought-provoking, beautifully captures the layered identities many of us carry. This book invites readers to step into a world where contrasts create harmony, offering a fresh perspective on cultural identity and how we see ourselves and each other.

As Lamrabat himself says, “Mousganistan is a big construction of bridges. I truly feel that if we focus on what we have in common instead of what divides us, it can bring people closer together."

Highly Recommend!



Photo: Mous Lamrabat

A way with words | Inspired to explore the exquisite use of language in art, this week, a delicate interplay between art, music, and memory with artist Carlos Aires, with whom I had the pleasure of working on the ‘The Circus We Are’ Exhibition in Namur.

Carlos Aires invites us to explore the universality of love songs in his series "Love Songs for Times of Crisis." In this captivating piece, Aires reimagines a 100 Hong Kong dollar banknote, featuring a young woman in traditional Cantonese opera costume, as a canvas for hidden lyrics. The full text of the beloved 1935 classic "In the Mood for Love," penned by Dorothy Fields, is meticulously concealed through a stunning trompe l’oeil effect, with golden pins reminiscent of a taxidermist’s delicate work.

By layering imagery, music, and optical illusion, Aires challenges us to consider the fleeting nature of love and beauty, while also paying homage to Wong Kar-wai's film of the same name.

Artwork: IN THE MOOD LOVE (Love songs for times of crisis series) 2023
120 x 160 x 10 cm
Cotton archival photo paper, golden pins, cardboard, gold leaf covered wooden frame, antireflective museum glass.

‘Smell the sea and feel the sky / Let your soul and spirit fly into the mystic.’ These Van Morrison lyrics capture the deep connection I’ve always felt with the sea, a connection that resurfaced in 2018 when I curated 'The Sensation of the Sea: In Honour of Bas Jan Ader' for De Mesdag Collectie.

Inspired by Dutch Artist Bas Jan Ader’s performance 'In Search of the Miraculous', which ended in his mysterious disappearance at sea in 1975, the exhibition explored how contemporary artists engage with the ocean’s vastness and mystery. Each work reflected the sea’s emotional and symbolic power, drawing us into its depths.

For me, the experience strengthened my lifelong bond with water, a constant source of reflection and inspiration.

A number of weeks ago, I shared a post about a new work by Chiharu Shiota 塩田千春 a currently on display at the Podo Museum in South Korea. This prompted me to reflect on the first time I met this remarkable artist at 'The Raft. Art is (not) Lonely.', a large-scale group exhibition in Ostend, Belgium, which I co-curated. In her work ‘Uncertain Journey’ (2017), the web symbolises the intricate network of human relationships that we all belong to, while the boat represents our life path: a turbulent journey with an elusive final destination.

“The woven web is like a network that relates people to each other. The multiplicity of interactions that we live each day raises questions for me, as well as their connections to the past and future. The creation of this indecipherable, intertwined structure, its plasticity, is a mystery, as are still our brains and the universe.” - Chiharu Shiota | Memorandum for Uncertain Journey | MAY 2016

Forever inspired and grateful to be able to work with such incredible artists. Forever Curious and Keen to see what they do next.

Image: 'The Key in the Hand' (2015). Courtesy the artist, Photo: Sunhi Mang

On the road again, I’m reminded of Petrovsky & Ramone's words: 'When you are on the road, all scenarios are open’. Travel has a way of revealing the unexpected—brief moments of beauty, fleeting encounters, and shifting landscapes that break from the ordinary.

Petrovsky & Ramone capture this essence in their 'Oxymoron' series, where the contradictions of life—love and conflict, beauty and chaos—come into focus. Their work resonates with me deeply, especially in these reflective moments of travel. There is something about being in motion, in-between places, that amplifies our awareness of the dualities that shape our experiences, where everything feels open, and stories unfold in ways we don’t expect.

Image: Petrovsky & Ramone, from the 'Oxymoron' series, 'Love & War.'

Taking a moment from the whirlwind of upcoming exhibitions to speak from the heart.

Iranian-born artist Homa Arkani هما ارکانی, with whom I’ve had the honour of collaborating on exhibitions such as 'The Twist of Thirst', 'THE CLOWN SPIRIT–The Traveling Exhibition', and 'The Circus We Are', recently endured a hateful attack. Her Brussels studio was vandalised with hate symbols and slurs, and several of her works were damaged.

This attack wasn’t just on Homa but on everything her art represents. In her own words, “This attack is not just on me, but on the principles of love, diversity, and creativity that we all cherish.” There’s no room for such hate in our world.

In support of Homa, I wanted to share this deeply personal artwork she painted while preparing to celebrate Persian New Year with her family, especially her mother. It speaks of resilience—“Resilience is not easy,” she said when sharing it. It’s about longing, connection, but I also feel strength in the face of adversity.

As an artistic community, this attack goes against everything we know art stands for. Now, more than ever, we must support one another. Please join me in amplifying Homa’s voice and her art. Share to spread awareness.

Artwork: Homa Arkani, Nature tapestry, Leyla & Majnoun series part 3 I oil on Canvas I 120 X 80 cm I 2024

Basking in the golden glow of these last summer days, there's no better way to savour the season than exploring side by side with our little adventurer.

As the world unfolds its endless wonders, every step with our son is a daily reminder to keep our spirits curious and our hearts keen...

My love for this circus is eternal, always catching my eye! Captivated by the work of Moroccan-Belgian photographer Mous Lamrabat.

Many artists share a deep connection with the circus and clowns. Identifying as a clown, or vice versa, brings a unique ability to transcend life. Lamrabat’s ‘Louis The Clown' (2021) captures clowns' playful spirit, bursting with exuberance. Much like a circus, his work is a mesmerizing dance of contrasts and harmonies, inviting viewers into a world of imagination and wonder.

"I have always been intrigued by clowns because I love emotions. Clowns have always inspired me with their happiness and joy. However, I've also noticed a certain sadness in clowns, which isn't their original purpose. I enjoy working with clown photos because they are so full of emotion. I always strive to infuse humor into them, as evoking an emotional response makes a photo memorable. My favorite emotion to evoke is humor because laughter is important.” - Mous Lamrabat

Taking the time to look back on many adventures, including this photo from the opening of SEEN in May 2019 with the incredibly talented Belgian artist Robert Devriendt.

A master in realism and suspense, Robert’s work tells intense, mysterious, and cinematographic stories. He leaves just enough out to ignite the viewer’s imagination, encouraging us to create our own narratives.

Working with Robert on multiple occasions has been an honor, from 'The Artist / Knight' at Kasteel van Gaasbeek to 'The Raft. Art is (not) Lonely' in Oostende, and the ongoing ‘THE CLOWN SPIRIT – The Traveling Exhibition’.

Words can't fully capture the enriching experience of collaborating with the intricate, story-weaving and compelling mind behind the art.

A Way with Words | Diving into the depths of expression - the exquisite use of language in art.

Conceptual artist John Baldessari uses text and imagery to challenge the viewer’s perceptions and expectations, confronting the notion of what constitutes art. The work consists of a repeated handwritten phrase, “I will not make any more boring art”, which both serves as a personal vow and a provocative statement. This repetitive act transforms a simple sentence into a powerful visual mantra.

His work playfully encourages viewers to consider the role of language in shaping our understanding of art and its potential to disrupt, challenge, and inspire.

Artwork: John Baldessari, ‘I Will Not Make Any More Boring Art’
(1971)

Spending this summer in Spain? | Over a year ago I was (Awe) struck by this work, Red Angel of Marseille (1993), by James Lee Byars, installed at the time at Pirelli HangarBicocca, .
The work composed of 1,000 red glass spheres arranged on the floor to create an anthropomorphic and floral form, is now on display at Museo Reina Sofía, Madrid, as part of the exhibition ‘James Lee Byars - Perfect is the Question’ open until 1 September 2024.

"Probably one of the most important philosophical moments is when you realize that almost everything is a big question. Or at least, in everything there is a question." - James Lee Byars

Byars often invited the public to engage with his art performatively, making the presence or absence of the artist a critical aspect of the experience. His work often revolved around the primacy of questions over answers, emphasizing the openness and indeterminacy inherent in artistic exploration.

Highly recommend!

More Info: https://www.museoreinasofia.es/en/exhibitions/james-lee-byars

Photo: View of the exhibition ‘James Lee Byars. Perfect Is the Question’ 2024 | Museo Reina Sofía.

When you are scrolling through your 1,000s of photos and stumble across a beautiful moment. We had a blast with the installation of 'Our Kisses' by artists Petrovsky & Ramone at SEEN. In the picture with Petra, one of the artists, Edwin Becker, head of exhibitions at the Van Gogh Museum, and Laura Adams, curator of the project.

The journey as an art curator is made even more rewarding by the vibrant community of artists, creators, and art lovers who bring their unique visions and voices to life. Whether it's through collaborations, exhibitions, or simply sharing our love for art, the connections we build are what truly make this journey special.

Photo by © Christine Smeyers

Summer | Don’t miss the group exhibition 'Cloudwalker' currently at the incredible space that is Museum Voorlinden until 19 January 2025.

The exhibition features works by French performance artist Abraham Poincheval, who states, “My work revolves around the adventure of making dreams come true.” In his performances, always seeks his physical and mental limits. Suspended from a hot air balloon several hundred meters above the ground, he ventures into a boundless realm of water, earth particles, and sky dust. Like a modern-day explorer, Poincheval journeys across ever-changing clouds, capturing the stunning transformation of colours from his unique vantage point.

Image: Abraham Poincheval ‘Walk on Clouds’ (2019)
Museum Voorlinden Collection

More info: https://www.voorlinden.nl/tentoonstelling/cloudwalker/

Last Chance – Closing soon! | ‘Anselm Kiefer. Fallen Angels’ is open at Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi, until July 21, 2024.

Coinciding with the , this breathtaking exhibition invites you to explore the profound relationship between the mortal and spiritual realms. Featuring over twenty-five works, both new and historical, Kiefer's masterpieces engage with the Renaissance architecture of Palazzo Strozzi.

The truly immersive installation "Verstrahlte Bilder" (Irradiated Paintings, 1983-2023) is a captivating collection of 60 paintings that have been exposed to nuclear radiation, reflecting on the intertwined nature of creation and decay. In his interview featured in the exhibition's catalogue, Kiefer states, "Destruction is part of the creative process. I place my paintings outside; I submerge them in baths of electrolysis", highlighting his unique approach to art that incorporates natural and chemical processes to alter his works over time.

More info: https://www.palazzostrozzi.org/en/archivio/exhibitions/anselm-kiefer/

Photo Credit: Anselm Kiefer, Verstrahlte Bilder (Irradiated paintings) 1983–2023. 60 painting elements, 600 × 1482 × 673 cm. Photo: © Ela Bialkowska, OKNO studio.

It is with deep sadness that I learn of the passing of the extraordinary artist Bill Viola.

I had the immense honor of collaborating with Bill for two different exhibitions. The first was 'The Raft. Art is (not) Lonely' - Het Vlot. Kunst is -niet- eenzaam in Oostende, where his piece 'The Raft' was a powerful contribution to the exhibition. The second exhibition, held at De Mesdag Collection and commissioned by the Van Gogh Museum, was ‘The Sensation of the Sea. In Honour of Bas Jan Ader’ featuring Bill’s unforgettable work ‘Sharon 2013’ from the series ‘The Dreamers.’

He had a special bond with water, a theme that permeates his work. In 'Sharon, 2013’ her peaceful demeanor and the ambient sound of running water invite viewers into a meditative, dream-like state. This piece captures a surreal and tranquil existence, with tiny movements and bubbles revealing life beneath the water’s surface. It is with this work that I would most like to remember him, in a state of peace, reverence, and contemplation—a state his work inspired in so many others.

Bill Viola's legacy will continue to touch our hearts and minds, inviting exploration into the depths of human experience and emotion. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family and his lovely partner, Kira. You will be deeply missed.

Image/ Film Still: Bill Viola ‘Sharon’ (2013)
Color high-definition video on flat panel display; stereo sound
Performer: Sharon Ferguso

Honored & grateful! A heartfelt article by Laura Catini in Segnonline about 'THE CROWN OF LOVE THE ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE (Jan Fabre in Naples, a marriage of art and life)' film.

“The Crown of Love. The ultimate performance, directed by Giovanni Troilo and co-written with Melania Rossi, is not just a docufilm about the Belgian master Jan Fabre. It is most of all the laying bare of his inner, most intimate moment, his wedding day …
"I dream of creating a performance that completely mesmerises the audience. No roaring applause but a long, deafening silence. The audience has forgotten that silence is permissible. Silence is also a good thing. Silence as an extreme form of joy and respect' (Jan Fabre, Antwerp, 11 September 1984). And silence is instantaneously provoked at the end of the screening. A reaction sought and found. From the beginning until the end of the film, joy and respect move in the gaze of the audience.”

Deeply moved by the dedication and effort poured into this intimate celebration

Read the Article: https://segnonline.it/jan-fabre-la-prode-epifania-del-rubrum-gorgonia/

Running time: 42’ | Language: Italian
Directed by Giovanni Troilo | Written by Melania Rossi and Giovanni Troilo | Co-produced by La Compagnie des Indes with Angelos bv (Angelos/Jan Fabre) | Produced by Ballandi
Now available on demand at Nowtv-it
Photography/copyright: David Bastianoni
Wedding planner:
Dress: & Jan Fabre

Tomorrow night, THURSDAY 27th JUNE, 8:25pm, on Sky Arte - THE CROWN OF LOVE THE ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE (Jan Fabre in Naples, a marriage of art and life).

This film celebrates our wedding, our son's baptism, and Jan's artistic journey in Naples, showcasing a crimson thread that weaves the Royal Chapel of San Gennaro, the Chapel of Pio Monte della Misericordia, and the Church of Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco. Featuring Giacinto Di Pietrantonio, Melania Rossi, Achille Bonito Oliva, and Lino Musella, it honors the universality of love and art.

Grateful beyond words for the work that has gone into this intimate celebration of our little tribe of three and Jan’s artistry.

Running time: 42’ | Language: Italian
Directed by Giovanni Troilo | Written by Melania Rossi and Giovanni Troilo | Co-produced by La Compagnie des Indes La Compagnie des Indes with Angelos bv (Angelos/Jan Fabre) | Produced by Ballandi

Photo: Film Still - a heartfelt moment captured on film, behind the scenes with Artist Oda Jaune, our ring bearer.

Enchanted by Femmy Otten’s stunning work ‘Moeder’ (2024) at this year's Triënnale Beaufort in , which beautifully captures the essence of motherhood. Initially created in wood during her pregnancy and later in marble, the sculpture highlights the scarcity of pregnant women in art. Untraditionally set without a pedestal, creating the sense of a ‘fluid’ delicate balance, where the figure interacts with water. This beautiful work represents the strength and vulnerability of motherhood. A must-see!

“I hope that the sculpture will radiate its love and that we will heal from the things we hesitate to talk about.” - Femmy Otten

It was a true pleasure working with Femmy Otten on the ‘The Circus We Are’ exhibition in Namur.

Photo: Triënnale Beaufort

| “It’s about presence, your own state of mind and being sensitive to oneself in the place that you’re at… The bass sound does something to your psyche, your body, it rattles your ribcage. It’s the basis of Black music. So it fed into this visceral want. It’s transformative, transcending. ”- Steve McQueen

Currently reading the latest interview with Steve McQueen and Louisa Buck from The Art Newspaper, engaging in a thought-provoking conversation about McQueen’s new work ‘Bass’ at the ground-floor gallery at DiaBeacon (Dia Art Foundation), . The abstract work shows no screens, no projections, just 30,000 sq. ft composed solely of light, colour, and sound.

It was a true pleasure to work with McQueen during the exhibition ‘The Raft. Art is (not) Lonely’ in Oostende. Looking forward to when this new work ‘Bass’ travels to Schaulager, Basel, in June 2025.

Fascinating read! | Read the article: https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2024/05/02/steve-mcqueen-the-oscar-winner-who-still-sees-himself-first-and-foremost-as-an-artist?

Photo: Steve McQueen/ ©James Stopforth

:Beacon

A Way with Words | I’ve been inspired to explore the exquisite use of language in art, and Bruce Nauman’s ‘Human nature/knows doesn’t know 1983/1986’ is truly captivating, although possibly a bit ‘heavy’ for a Wednesday night.

This work is a powerful exploration of the complexities and contradictions of human nature. Nauman invites us to engage with the dualities of knowledge and ignorance, certainty and doubt. The interplay of neon text draws us in, making us reflect on what it truly means to know something and how our assumptions can both illuminate and mislead us. Through this work, we are challenged to confront the uncertainty at the core of our existence.

Image: Bruce Nauman ‘Human nature/knows doesn’t know’ (1983/1986) Installation view at the Tate Modern. Photograph by Matt Greenwood/ Tate Modern.

Don't miss experiencing the immersive beauty of Enrique Marty's exhibition, 'De Profundis' on display at the Antwerp Cathedral until December 2024.

Walking through the space with the artist himself during the opening was a true pleasure. Marty's works, created with humility and respect, engage in a profound dialogue with the cathedral's sacred environment. His use of light to highlight the cathedral’s beauty is breathtaking. The blend of contemporary art with the historic grandeur of the cathedral creates a unique atmosphere.

Highly recommended! Created in collaboration with KETELEER GALLERY.
More details: https://www.dekathedraal.be/en/news/de-profundis

Photo: Stephanie Remon