Statues and other monuments in public space: we walk past them every day, often without thinking about them. They remind us of an event, pay tribute to an important person, express a sense of shared pride… Monuments make a bid for eternity. This is definitely the case since the nineteenth century. But what about our era? Does such a “public monument with a message” still have a future? Will we build other types of monuments? What is the impact and role of art in a public space? The monument is dead, long live art?
The Middelheim Museum, which is responsible for art in public space in Antwerp, invited thirteen artists to reflect on the relevance of monuments in our time. Three questions take centre stage in this exhibition, which features new work by the thirteen artists. For whom or for what can an artist still create a meaningful and relevant monument today? What is your relationship as an artist to the client? And does such a permanent, “eternal” monument still have relevance in our rapidly changing and complex times?
All the selected artists are familiar with Belgium. The new work which they created for the exhibition will be exhibited in Middelheim Park. Some are opposed to the tradition of the monument, others use it as their starting point. The outcome is an interesting interaction.
- Caroline Coolen
- Johan Creten
- Jan De Cock
- Nick Ervinck
- Michel François
- Kendell Geers
- Wesley Meuris
- Selçuk Mutlu
- Johan Muyle
- Nadia Naveau
- Sven 't Jolle
- Angel Vergara Santiago
- Gert Verhoeven
Your activity in an artwork?
The artist Angel Vergara Santiago contributed a special work to the “New Monuments” exhibition.
He has installed a big top with a bar in the museum. The tent and bar are freely available to the public. If you wish to organise an event or an activity with your association, family or friends, or want to show off your skills on a stage, then you are more than welcome. Read more.
Other events
In addition to a free exhibition text for individual visitors, the museum guides also host tours for adults, teens and children.
The existing monuments in the centre of Antwerp are put in the spotlight thanks to a thorough cleaning of the Brabo monument in front of the town hall, and with a walking trail past the most important sculptures in public space in the centre of Antwerp.
A surprising series of art historical and literary lectures has been developed together with Antwerp Book Capital.
Read more about the activities.
A publication with contributions by the artists will also be published.