Discover Benelux,Issue 82, October-November 2023

LOOK YOUR BEST AMAZING BRANDS

MERGING EASTERN AND WESTERN INFLUENCES: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ARTIST IMGE ÖZBILGE

PLUS:

LUXEMBOURG HIGHLIGHTS

EXTRAORDINARY DESIGNERS

CULTURE, TRAVEL & EVENTS

As autumn’s gentle embrace ushers in cooler temperatures and a symphony of golden leaves, we’d like to welcome you to this issue of Discover Benelux. With a sense of excitement, we dive into the vibrant cultural landscape of the Benelux region, seeking to uncover the stories, people and experiences that make this corner of Europe so captivating.

In the pages ahead, we embark on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of places such as Leeuwarden – the bustling capital of the province of Friesland – which may not draw as many tourists as Amsterdam but is nevertheless worth visiting (page 56). If you’re planning a trip to the capital, however, we’ve got you covered with exciting news about two of the city’s top museums: the Hermitage museum, which just reopened its doors as H’ ART this past September (page 74) and the Rijksmuseum, which is hosting the Richard Long in the Rijksmuseum Gardens exhibition through 29 October (page 78). We’re also spotlighting Luxembourg’s enchanting castles, historic appeal, unspoilt countryside and culinary scene (page 18) as well as curating an unforgettable experience for your next trip to Echternach, the country’s oldest city (page 62).

Design aficionados will find inspiration within the pages of our special section featuring architects, interior designers and beautiful items for the home, starting on page 24. Discover how to create an inviting and elegant space, both inside and outside the home.

Last but certainly not least, gracing our cover is multidisciplinary artist Imge Özbilge. Her whimsical creations (whether on paper

or screen) merge Eastern and Western influences, drawing the viewer in with their mythological figures, richly layered meaning and captivating detailing. Turn to page 50 to read about this talented artist’s work and inspirational story.

We hope this issue will once again be a great source of inspiration and provide you with a welcome escape.

Stay inspired!

Paola Westbeek Editor

Discover Benelux

Issue 82,

October/November 2023

Published 10.2023

ISSN 2054-7218

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd.

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Executive Editor

Thomas Winther

Creative Director

Mads E. Petersen

Editor

Paola Westbeek

Copy-editor

Vera Winther

Graphic Designer

Mercedes Moulia

Contributors

Melissa Adams

Matt Antoniak

Kristel Balcaen

Lisa Burn

Monique Gadella

Jennifer Dewar

Liam Greenwell

Debby Grooteman

Scheenagh Harrington

Steve Flinders

Tahney Fosdike

Dana Marin

Tristana Perroncel

Noelia Santana

Lucy Shrimpton

Paola Westbeek

Maya Witters

Cover Photo

Jonathan Karsilo

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Sophie Blecha

Hans Van Muylder

Petra Foster

Amber Peels

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This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles.

Contents

COVER FEATURE

50 The fascinating world of Imge Özbilge

Though she currently calls Antwerp home, multidisciplinary artist Imge Özbilge’s cosmopolitan background has certainly left its mark on her work. Özbilge’s whimsical creations (whether on paper or screen) merge Eastern and Western influences, drawing the viewer in with their mythological figures, richly layered meaning and captivating detailing.

THEMES

10 Look your best – Amazing brands

Looking your best in the autumn isn’t just about following the latest fashion trends; it’s about embracing the unique beauty and comfort that this season offers. Here are ten tips about how to effortlessly radiate autumn charm while staying true to your personal style. Plus, in this special, we also spotlight the companies that will help you do just that!

18 Luxembourg highlights

There’s no doubt that the saying “good things come in small packages” certainly applies to Luxembourg. Sandwiched between Belgium to the north and west, Germany to the east and France to the south, the country merits more than a lightning visit en route to France or Spain. The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (as it is officially known) charms visitors with its rich culture and myriad attractions. Check our top five reasons to linger and discover what it has to offer.

24 Your house – Extraordinary designers

Spending time making your house a home is about more than just creating an aesthetically pleasing environment. In fact, having a space that reflects your personality and expresses your personal style and tastes, is guaranteed to enhance your well-being. Just imagine the joy of always coming home to a place that’s uniquely yours and makes you feel your best. In this home and design special, we’re highlighting a selection of companies that will make decorating your home or office a pleasure.

BUSINESS

36 Column, regulars and more

We take a look at the months ahead in Benelux business, as well as profiling the companies you need to know about.

FEATURES

56 Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden may not have the name recognition of Amsterdam or The Hague, but it offers plenty to draw in tourists seeking an under-the-radar experience in the Netherlands. It was named a European Capital of Culture in 2018 – and it hasn’t slowed down since, continuing to punch above its weight in food and art.

62 48 hours in Luxembourg’s oldest city

In the east of the country, encircled by rolling hills and primeval forests, bearing the testimonies of times long gone, lies the oldest city in Luxembourg: Echternach. This enchanting place beckons travellers with its rich history, cultural treasures and breathtaking natural beauty.

68 Beer without the buzz

Drinking alcohol-free is a growing trend in many countries, but has it taken hold in Belgium, a country synonymous with great beer and a brewing tradition that dates back hundreds of years? Trappist, lambic, fruit, brown, blonde, sour, wheat – they’re all part of the fabric of Belgian society. Could this be threatened by the emergence of low alcohol alternatives?

74 Amsterdam’s Hermitage museum reborn as H’ART

Evolving with our turbulent times, what was formerly the largest satellite of the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, has found new life, as well as new international partnerships, as Amsterdam’s H’ART museum. Looking beyond borders, the reborn venue will bring world-renowned art collections spanning continents and oceans to the Dutch capital.

78 Richard Long Walks into the Rijksmuseum Gardens

When Richard Long repeatedly walked a straight path in tall grass until it formed a visible line, he unwittingly took the first steps of a contemporary art career that now spans more than a half-century. The 10th edition of the Rijksmuseum Gardens’ free outdoor sculpture series celebrates the contemporary British artist who rose to prominence with A Line Made by Walking

DON’T MISS

6 Desirable Designs | 8 Fashion Picks 40 Out & About | 82 Columns

DESIRABLE DESIGNS

A comfortable return to the office

Whether commuting in, working from home or on-the-go, carefully planning your personal workspaces ensures daily focus and inspiration. Customise your office, wherever it might be, with these designs that promise flexibility, ease of mind and (maybe, even) less of that pesky back pain.

TEXT: TAHNEY FOSDIKE | PRESS PHOTOS

Richard Armchair + Judy Side Table Faded-White

ecoBirdy’s lounge furniture, created from household plastic waste, blends sustainability, ergonomics and pleasure. This small furniture set, available in two colours, fits any office or multi-use area and can even be taken outside on a sunny day. As a more casual alternative to your main desk space, its postural support suits various office needs, like sipping your morning coffee while catching up on emails.

€920 ecobirdy.com

Urchin Floor Lamp

The right light infuses calm into your most productive hours. Control your workflow with the Urchin Floor Lamp from Studio Rik ten Velden’s collaboration with the Dutch Textile Lab by Textielmuseum Tilburg. Match your mood with their experimental 3D-knitted woollen shades on steel frames, an innovative construction that makes it possible to change colour.

€730 riktenvelden.com

Bookend

Iris van Daalen & Ruben Thier approach design with the motto: “Don’t take the world for granted.” They combine innovation with elegance using techniques like digital modelling and fabrication in the hopes that their experimental products are cherished and long-lasting. Under this ethos, they’ve created bookends from irregular lumps of factory overproduction plastics to hold your notes, folders and books for easy access throughout your working hours.

€98

thiervandaalen.com

Get work done with Luxembourg designer Julie Conrad, who understands the need for personal comfort, portability and privacy when away from the office. Her laptop sleeves fold into a lightweight package to carry around town or while travelling. Set up your laptop for your eyes only in public places, obscured by its fun array of colours.

€69 shop.jcds.lu

Do you have to stay put throughout the workday? Not if you don’t want to! Step beyond your comfort zone with Not A Desk. Their portable desk and chair allow you to set up your workday in more inspiring spaces when your office feels a bit stuffy – even in nature, if you feel the urge. Follow your dreams by finding focus in all the places that bring you delight.

€339

notadesk.com

CARRY ME laptop sleeve

Office chair and table

Autumn in style

With autumn at our doorstep and cooler temperatures that call for cosy looks, why not give your wardrobe a fresh and stylish makeover built around favourite items from last season? Summer may now seem like a distant memory, but no need to ditch dresses once temperatures start to drop!

TEXT: NOELIA SANTANA | PRESS PHOTOS

Revamp your workwear

Beat the grey-day blues by investing in some fashionable workwear staples that will keep you sorted all season. A pair of wide-leg trousers is a classic that you can mix and match with plenty of other pieces. Channel your French girl chic with this lovely pair of trousers by Sézane.

Sézane, Giacomo wide-leg trousers, €130, www.sezane.com

Master the art of layering

Autumnal weather can bring some uncertainty when it comes to dressing from morning till evening, so layering could be your lifesaver. Knitwear is your best ally when creating interesting layered looks. You can wear this cool Homecore jumper over your shoulders for that extra bit of warmth (just in case), but it will also add a fun twist to your outfit.

Homecore, Sweat canyon jumper, €166, www.smallable.com

Florals are not just for spring

Keep your outfits light and fresh by wearing prints that make you forget the cold. Florals are timeless and can adapt to every season, so they are easy to wear all through autumn. We love this blouse by Amsterdam-based brand Fabienne Chapot. They take pride in their original prints, all of which are designed by hand with the stroke of brush.

Fabienne Chapot, Benoit blouse, €169.99, www.fabiennechapot.com

Embrace autumnal colours

Start embracing warm and earthy colours just in time for autumn. You can pair them with the lighter hues from your summer wardrobe for an easy transition into the new season. For example, mix earthy tones like rust, brown, olive green or burgundy with ecru or beige. These gorgeous leather loafers will look great with your neutral linens or even a pair of jeans.

Sézane, Vicky loafers, €160, www.sezane.com

Transition your summer staples

Don’t give up on your summer pieces just yet, especially dresses! Dresses are one of the most versatile pieces out there – sometimes all you need is to add an extra layer and a pair of season-appropriate shoes to create a brand-new look. This gorgeous Reformation dress looks great with a pair of loafers and a linen blazer. A sharp way to start the autumn.

Reformation, Tagliatelle linen dress, €348, www.thereformation.com

Your autumn best

Looking your best in the autumn isn’t just about following the latest fashion trends; it’s about embracing the unique beauty and comfort that this season offers. Here are ten tips about how to effortlessly radiate autumn charm while staying true to your personal style. Plus, in this special, we also spotlight the companies that will help you do just that

TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: PIXABAY

1.Embrace autumn fashion

Autumn fashion is all about layering, texture and rich colours. Swap out your summer wardrobe for cosy sweaters, stylish scarves and versatile boots. Earthy tones such as deep reds, warm browns and mustard yellows can add a touch of autumnal elegance to your outfits. Incorporating plaid and tweed fabrics into your wardrobe can also capture the essence of the season. If shopping for a new look on a budget, make sure to check out thrift shops and vintage markets. If you happen to visit Amsterdam, head on over to ‘De Negen Straatjes’, or ‘Nine Streets’. Located between Leidsestraat and Raadhuisstraat, and just a two-minute walk from the Royal Palace, these charming streets are home to myriad vintage shops and boutiques. The Haarlemmerstraat is also highly recommended when it comes to scoring

everything from elegant to quirky vintage autumn finds.

2.Cosy outerwear

The crisp autumn air calls for stylish outerwear. Invest in a classic trench coat, a leather jacket or a tailored blazer to stay warm and fashionable. These pieces not only provide comfort but also elevate your overall look.

3.Accessorise!

Accessories can make or break an autumn outfit. Opt for statement pieces like chunky knit scarves, felt hats, tights, unique jewellery and leather gloves. When it comes to accessories, look to Lady Bird in Paris (page 16) for plenty of inspiration! You won’t find mass produced items here but pieces that are truly unique and will finish off any look in true French elegance.

4.A seasonal splash of colour

As the leaves change colour, so should your makeup palette. Earthy tones like warm browns, deep plums and rich burgundies can enhance your natural beauty during the autumn season. Keep an eye out for new launches and visit the beauty counters of your local department store for tailored advice. Don’t forget to add a splash of colour to your nails, too! Turn to page 15 and read about how Maniac can make having beautiful hands easy!

5.Transitioning skincare

Autumn may bring cooler temperatures, but it can also lead to dry or irritated skin once the heating is switched on. Trade your lightweight summer moisturiser for a richer formula to keep your skin hydrated and protected from the elements. And despite the greyer days, don’t overlook the importance of using SPF sun protection on all areas of exposed skin. Exfoliation (whether with a beauty brush or a Konjac sponge) can help remove dead skin cells and keep your complexion glowing. A beauty treatment at this

time of year is also very much in order, so turn to page 14 to see how ZJĺ’s line of seaweed products can help give you glowing skin – not to mention a delicious moment of relaxation.

6.Give your tresses a break

Autumn’s humidity-free air is the perfect time to embrace your hair’s natural texture. Whether you have curls, waves or straight locks, skip the harsh driers and curling irons, opting instead for low-maintenance hairstyles that celebrate your hair’s uniqueness.

7.Footwear

From ankle boots to knee-high leather boots, autumn provides a plethora of footwear options. Choose footwear that complements your outfit while keeping your feet cosy and dry on rainy days. On sunny days, loafers can add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

8.Seasonal fragrance

Swap out your light, summery fragrances for warm, spicy scents that evoke the co-

siness of autumn. Fragrances with notes of cinnamon, vanilla and cedar can add an extra layer of sophistication to your autumn style.

9.Eat well, stay hydrated and keep moving!

Remember to maintain your overall health and well-being during the autumn by feasting on nutrient-dense seasonal produce like pumpkins, squash, root vegetables, plums, apples and pears. Staying hydrated is easy as autumnal herbal teas definitely count towards your daily water intake. Don’t let the weather keep you indoors and glued to your desk. Rain or shine, head out at least once a day for a breath of fresh air and some much-needed movement.

10.Dare to be confident

Ultimately, looking your best in autumn is not just about what you wear, but also about exuding confidence and maintaining a positive attitude. When you feel good on the inside, it radiates on the outside. Have a great season!

Seaweed rescues your skin

TEXT: MONIQUE GADELLA | PHOTOS: ZJ Í

“Everyone knows that bathing in the sea is good for your skin,” says Carla van de Vijver from ZJĺ. “We harvest that goodness in the form of seaweed and make beauty products from it.” Remaining as close as possible to the original form, their products are pure and can be used to treat a range of different skin issues.

Did you know that 16,000 species of seaweed live in the sea? Some of these macro algae are beneficial to our skin, and ZJĺ, a company located in Zeeland near the North Sea in the Netherlands, offers us an accessible way of using them.

Carla van de Vijver and Caroline BuijsseCammaert were walking along the shoreline when the idea of their business emerged. ZJĺ (pronounced ‘shee’) means sea in the local dialect. They both love the relaxing effect of being by the sea and have developed a product line that

brings you the goodness of the sea without the need for travel.

“Our products restore the healthy balance of the skin,” says Van de Vijver. “They keep harmful anti-oxidants at bay, moisturise and help calm a sunburnt skin.” They also heal skin suffering from acne, eczema and psoriasis and feed ageing skin. Seaweed contains essential vitamins, natural minerals such as magnesium and zinc, amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids, which all help to heal damaged skin cells.

The entrepreneurial pair have done extensive research and developed a network of seaweed farmers located in the cleanest European seas with the right length of waves for optimal growth. “It’s a natural product, no extra water or fertiliser is necessary,” says Van de Vijver. “Our suppliers dry and package it to our specification.” After using it, it becomes a natural fertiliser.

ZJĺ works with wellness centres, beauty salons and hotels that offer treatments with the seaweed products. They are happy to train the beauticians in how to use their products to achieve maximum results. ZJĺ offers products that benefit your skin, whether at home or while enjoying a professional treatment.

www.zji.nl

Irish moss has a high concentration of carrageen, which protects the skin.

Massage with seaweed oil rejuvenates the skin.

Heavenly sawn sea oak seaweed balms your skin leaving it silky smooth.

Enjoy a hot tub with clean seaweed.

The ease of beautiful nails

TEXT: MONIQUE GADELLA

Would you like to have perfect nails, but don’t have time to visit a nail salon? Maniac offers the solution: do-it-yourself gel polish stickers. These stickers are super easy to apply and remove at home and come in trendy styles and all classic colours. They are taking Europe by storm.

Anna de Koning and Marlot Meddens started Maniac after Meddens was pregnant and couldn’t visit a nail salon. “There must be an easier way to do your nails at home,” was their reasoning. After testing the gel polish stickers (which are huge in Korea and Japan), Maniac was born, hinting at “someone with extreme enthusiasm”.

The passionate ladies are keen to start a new movement that “celebrates hands”. They feel hands are undervalued. “I work with hands every day, and I realised that they enable me to do things that make me happy. Therefore, I celebrate my hands and make them beautiful with

Maniac,” De Koning points out. The duo spends a lot of time researching trends and talking to experts and stylists who know what is hot now. This results in a wide range of styles, from single colours to nail art. The stickers come in different widths, suitable for all shapes and sizes.

“More and more men are wearing nail polish these days,” says De Koning. That’s why, in cooperation with Atelier Reservé, they have launched the first European gel stickers especially for men. Men generally have wider and more angular nails, so they have adjusted their designs. The innovative clothing brand designs garments that are unisex. Atelier Reservé redesigns garments by combining old and new fabrics, making them unique. Their clothes are popular with people who want to express themselves. Expressive nails are a perfect fit with their philosophy.

Maniac offers one-of-sets, or you can subscribe to receive sticker sets regularly with

the option to change the colour and design every period. The advantages are numerous: perfect gel nails in only 15 minutes, they reinforce your nails and don’t damage them, don’t chip and stay perfect for at least two weeks. The stickers are produced without harmful chemicals, are vegan and are not tested on animals. For nails that fit your outfit and mood, try Maniac.

www.maniac-nails.com

Passionate ladies Anna de Koning and Marlot Meddens. Photo: Martijn Senders

Maniac Nails, for hands that love.

Photo: Maniac Nails

Match your outfit with Maniac.

Photo: Sarah Ann Terschegget

Nail art, one of the many styles available.

Photo: Anouk Nailed It

Standing out from the crowd

TEXT: JENNIFER DEWAR | PHOTOS: LADY BIRD

Paris is home to some of the world’s best designers, and Parisians are renowned for their sense of style. What’s their secret? Shops like Lady Bird, in the city’s Montmartre district, which epitomises the Parisians’ love of fashion, accessories and all things chic and original.

If you’re lucky enough to live in Paris, or you’re just visiting, the best way to see the city is to ‘flâner’. A ‘flâneur’ is someone who strolls through the city, observing and watching without any particular purpose. To absorb the wonderful sights and sounds of Paris, a good place to start is Montmartre. The district is a key part of the visitor experience for those arriving in the City of Light. It is home to the famous Sacré Coeur church, which sits on top of the hill in the city’s 18th arrondissement, with fantastic views over Paris. It also has the Moulin Rouge and, of course, the iconic film Amélie is set in Montmartre! It

is a well-known artistic area too, with lots of paintings and drawings displayed and caricaturists in the streets.

If you ‘flâner’ down Rue des Abbesses, you’ll find the one-of-a-kind fashion accessories store Lady Bird, a must for visitors interested in Parisian style. What better place for Lady Bird to be than right in the heart of this wonderful district? Known for its chic standout accessories, the shop is a favourite with celebrities

and featured in the secret address book of Parisians looking for something original and stylish.

A hidden gem

Lady Bird was created in 2009 and later bought by Parisian Denis Jacob and his Brazilian wife Solange. The shop sells accessories such as jewellery, tights, hats and scarves, all of which are a far cry from ordinary high-street brands. Jacob comments: “I believe people should always try and express their unique personality and dare to do something different. Chain stores everywhere sell the same type of clothing – like a uniform. Lady Bird offers something different, and I believe it not only brightens up your life, but that of those around you too.”

In addition to Lady Bird, they opened OCA (www.oca.paris) in the Marais district, earlier this year. It is where Solange creates unique pieces of precious jewel-

lery in her atelier (all by hand!) to sell at the boutique.

They are also distributors for the Brazilian brand TUN, which specialises in costume jewellery made with natural latex.

Plans are currently underway for a third shop called Unique (www.uniquemontmartre.paris), just around the corner from Lady Bird on Rue Durantin, which will focus on homewares and decorative items. As evidenced by its name, Unique will have the same style philosophy as its sister shop Lady Bird and is due to open in November 2023.

A large portion of Lady Bird’s items are made in different regions of France, including in Paris, and always in small batches with an artisanal quality. The shop sells things that are completely original and unique, including unusual items made from pleated fabric and natural latex. Prices typically range between €20 and €300.

Lady Bird is also popular with international visitors. “We have very loyal clients from every corner of the globe,” Jacob points out. “We treat all of them like friends, whether it’s their first visit to the shop or their hundredth!”

Lady Bird is a true Aladdin’s cave for lovers of special pieces. In a world where big brands dominate the high street, it

can sometimes feel like there’s a lack of products that really stand out. This isn’t the case at Lady Bird. Customers will often spend a long time in the shop, mesmerised by the offerings and chatting with the owner. It’s also a great place to buy gifts for friends and relatives, whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for something to take back in your suitcase.

Shop window on the world

According to Jacob, Lady Bird is about to launch an online version of the shop due to the demand of many customers: “They want to be able to share what they have seen in the shop and to buy these

things when they return home. Parisians have also asked if they can buy online, as they want to make sure they don’t miss anything new.”

Lady Bird will soon be available to customers around the world, with its new website, so get ready to have the unique Parisian style delivered right to your doorstep!

If you want something chic that you won’t find anywhere else, there’s definitely no better place to go.

www.ladybird.paris

The draw of Luxembourg

There’s no doubt that the saying “good things come in small packages” certainly applies to Luxembourg. Sandwiched between Belgium to the north and west, Germany to the east and France to the south, the country merits more than a lightning visit en route to France or Spain. The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (as it is officially known) charms visitors with its rich culture and myriad attractions. Here are our top five reasons to linger and discover what it has to offer.

Enjoying outdoor activities.

Photo: © Jeniska Photography, Visit Guttland

Luxembourg City. Photo: © André Schösser, ©LFT

Historic appeal

Luxembourg’s cradle and eponymous vibrant capital, located in the southern part of the country near the confluence of the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to Roman times when it was part of the province of Belgica. It was first ruled by Siegfried I, Count of Ardennes, who built his castle there – named ‘Lucilinburhuc’, meaning ‘small fortress’ – in 963. This marked the beginning of what would become Luxembourg City, which, throughout the centuries, would fall under Burgundian, Spanish, French and Austrian rule. Luxembourg would remain fortified until 1867 when it was dismantled under the Treaty of London and declared a perpetually neutral and independent state. Luxembourg went on to become one of the three-quarters of the European Union, along with Brussels and Strasbourg. It is home to leading EU institutions such as

the European Court of Justice, the European Investment Bank and parts of the European Commission. With a total population of approximately 122,000 (of which 67% are foreigners), Luxembourg has grown into a European metropolis and leading centre for international institutions and businesses.

Handsome Old Town

Luxembourg’s old quarters and remaining fortifications were rightfully declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Boasting an impressive blend of historical and modern architecture, it invites you to wander through its pleasant cobblestoned streets and admire city landmarks such as the ancient casemates, the picturesque Chemin de la Corniche, the Grand Ducal Palace (which dates to the late 16th century and is the residence of the ducal family), the eclectic Cathédrale Notre-Dame (situated on the edge of town and built by

Friture de la Moselle. Photo: © Uwe Tolle, LFT

View of Vianden and its castle.

Photo: © diariesof.lu, LFT, Anabela and Jorge Valente - diariesof

the Jesuits between 1613 and 1621) and the double-arched Adolphe Bridge (erected between 1900 and 1903 and spanning 153 metres across the Pétrusse Valley).

Unspoilt nature

Whether you’re into hiking, cycling or water sports, Luxembourg’s glorious and verdant landscape tempts you to get out and about, actively indulge in nature and fill your lungs with crisp, clean air. The country has three nature reserves (Öewersauer, Our and Mëllerdall) that extend over one-third of the area and count some 60,000 inhabitants. These ‘Naturparks’ serve as protected areas for nature conservation and are dedicated to the protection of specific habitats and species. Luxembourg also has regional parks that focus on conservation and sustainable development. These parks promote eco-friendly tourism and outdoor activities while preserving the natural environment.

As for Luxembourg City, like all other urban centres in the country, it boasts ample green spaces and parks that provide residents and visitors with access to nature and recreational opportunities. Luxembourg’s government has implemented

various initiatives to promote biodiversity and protect the country’s natural heritage. These efforts include habitat restoration, reforestation projects and wildlife conservation programmes.

Magnificent castles

Embark on a journey through the pages of history as you admire some of Luxembourg’s most beautiful castles and magnificent fortresses. Vianden Castle is one of the country’s most famous and well-preserved castles. Tucked into the picturesque town of Vianden in the Ardennes, it dates back to the 10th century and was extensively restored in the 19th century. With its interesting mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, it’s definitely a must when visiting the region.

Another prominent medieval fortress is Bourscheid Castle, which keeps guard over the Sûre River in the Ardennes. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has also undergone several renovations throughout its history. Visitors can wander through the towers and courtyards while taking in the panoramic views of the river

valley below. Also worth adding to your itinerary is Larochette Castle. Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the town of Larochette in central Luxembourg, much of it is in ruins, but the tower and some walls can still be admired, offering visitors a glimpse of its former grandeur.

Excellent food & drink

Whether it’s ham or honey, cider or craft beer (and yes, even wine!), Luxembourg will tempt your taste buds with a wealth of fine restaurants and traditional dishes. ‘Judd mat Gaardebounen’, one of the country’s most iconic dishes and an emblem of its agricultural traditions, consists of smoked pork collar served with broad beans and potatoes. For a sweet treat try the ‘quetschentaart’, a delectable tart made with local plums, a buttery pastry base and a delicate crumb topping. Love seafood? Sink your teeth into the ‘friture de la Moselle’! Luxembourg is known for its freshwater fish, and these little, fried fish come piping hot with a side of tartar sauce and a wedge of lemon. The dish is best paired with a minerally Riesling. Luxembourg is known for its high-quality wines, particularly those made with this iconic grape.

Larochett Castle and surroundings in autumn.

Photo: © Alfonso Salgueiro, LFT

Luxembourg City views.

Photo: © André Schösser, LFT

The sound of the underground

TEXT: SCHEENAGH HARRINGTON

Lovers of art, literature, music and language are drawn to the multicultural melting pot that is Luxembourg. It’s also home to a lively alternative culture scene, spearheaded by the tiny but mighty venue De Gudde Wëllen. Co-founded in 2014 by Luka Heindrichs and located in the city’s old town, it has hosted bands including Ireland’s Fontaines DC, and US act Khruangbin.

De Gudde Wëllen was launched several years after the successful major Luxembourg music festival Food for Your Senses – which Heindrichs also co-ran – when the opportunity came up to take over a building in the city centre. Covering three floors, the club’s atmosphere is a blend of rough-and-ready and a warm welcome.

“It’s not that it isn’t a chic place, it’s more of a familiar place,” Heindrichs says. “It feels like coming home in a way. It’s very warm, and the atmosphere we want to create is something that’s personal, that’s not tapping into the aesthetics of the hippie chic or trendy thing that you see in a

lot of places across Luxembourg. It has more of a little rough feel. There’s a lot of tags on the outer walls, and it feels a bit like the underground.”

Small but perfectly formed De Gudde Wëllen is far from the city’s biggest venue, but it has grown to enjoy an international reach, working with agents across the Benelux region (as well as in the UK and Germany) to book a diverse range of talent.

“Obviously, we’re not going to be looking for very famous acts, but rather for upand-coming artists from around the world or bands that may have grown since the first time they played at our venue. It’s a very international programme,” Heindrichs explains.

Crowds gather outside De Gudde Wëllen, an alternative culture venue nestled in Luxembourg’s old town. Photo: Milo Hatfield

Photo: Milo Hatfield

“Usually, the bands really dig the place and like playing here because it has such a special atmosphere. In terms of genres showcased, it will go from indie to more electronic acts. There’s a bit of jazz and some hip-hop as well.”

Of course, there have been some standouts to have played De Gudde Wëllen over the years, and he reels off an impressive list that includes Moon Duo, The Soft Moon, Masta Ace, Lefto, Operators, This Is the Kit, Say Yes Dog and Weyes Blood.

Importantly for Heindrichs, any performers must be solid live acts, given the club’s intimate atmosphere. “There is something very personal that can be created, so it’s important to have artists who are good on stage, can create some kind of connection and make for a special moment. That’s what we’re looking for.”

The club attracts a wide audience, including a “very committed crowd” of older people attending performances and shows at least once a month, alongside younger fans who come to see friends who may be performing or a more high-profile act, and lots of expats.

“It’s one of the few places you can go and have a drink as well as dance with DJ programmes every weekend that doesn’t have a strict door policy. You don’t need to wear special, fancy clothes. You can

come as you are and just enjoy yourself. It’s inclusive by definition,” he enthuses.

Inclusive by definition

Interestingly, the club’s name can be almost as much of a draw as the artists. “Yes it’s a weird name but it’s fun to pronounce and easy to remember,” Heindrichs says. “People like saying it and joking about it, even if they don’t know what it means. It’s good for our image!”

The club is also taking advantage of its gorgeous location to try new things, and it’s definitely a case of so far, so good, as he explains: “We’ve been developing lots of activities around the brand and have stuff going on outside the venue every summer. We created an open-air bar on a beautiful terrace on the city walls over-

looking the old town towards the end of the pandemic, and it has been going strong ever since.

“That is something that didn’t exist five years ago, and the challenge when you create something that is very personal like this, is to move with the times; keep some kind of artistic integrity while not becoming retrograde.”

Heindrichs continues: “That includes bringing in younger people, both on the staff and in the club’s line-up. I hope that in five years’ time we’re still here, that people will still come and the programme is a mix of the stuff that we love and the stuff that is up-and-coming. www.deguddewellen.lu

Photo: Milo Hatfield

Photo: Ted Kayumba

Photo: Ted Kayumba

The art of the home

Spending time making your house a home is about more than just creating an aesthetically pleasing environment. In fact, having a space that reflects your personality and expresses your personal style and tastes, is guaranteed to enhance your well-being. Just imagine the joy of always coming home to a place that’s uniquely yours and makes you feel your best.

TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: PIXABAY

It’s no secret that a tastefully decorated home can significantly enhance your comfort, but did you know that it can also be a mood booster? If you spend time creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere with thoughtful decor choices such as colours, textures and striking accessories, you’ll be investing in your overall happiness and satisfaction. That’s not all, however. Well-chosen furniture and decor pieces such as lamps, furniture, carpets and even candles, can make your home more efficient, comfortable and contribute to a sense of order and tranquility. This is especially important for people who work from home and want to thrive in a space that boosts their productivity.

In this issue’s home and design special, we’re highlighting a selection of companies that will make decorating your home or office a pleasure, whether by providing ideas for beautiful and original objects or by offering their services to help you design the space of your dreams, which, of course, also includes your garden. Enlist-

ing the help of a garden designer means working with an expert who truly understands everything from the principles of landscaping to the art of horticulture and can combine their expertise and artistic perspectives to cater to your specific needs. A garden architect, much like an interior designer, will help you make optimal use of the space you have and save you time by assisting you in realising your vision, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a well-designed space without the hard work.

Once you’ve created the ultimate home environment, small accessories can have a big impact. Candles, for example, can enhance our environment in various ways, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that will keep those winter blues at bay and adding ambience to any room with their delicate glow and soft, flickering light. Scented candles can be especially delightful as they infuse a room with their delicious aromas and lift your mood and spirits.

In the pages ahead, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and ideas to help you craft a home that will bring you joy for many years to come!

Inspirational design on different scales

TEXT: MONIQUE GADELLA

With a great eye for detail, Veerle Van de Walle and Francesca Bonne run Altu, a multidisciplinary architecture studio. As trained architects, they work on a variety of projects (residential, cultural and in hospitality), sometimes renovating or extending a building and sometimes designing it from scratch. Unique is that every building comes with a custom interior. Altu’s talented team even designs objects like lampshades.

Van de Walle and Bonne take inspiration from their extensive travels from Italy to South America. They like to visit projects by their design heroes, such as Lina Bo Bardi, who has designed many peoplefriendly buildings in Brazil. During the design process, Altu looks to the past and reinterprets architecture in a contemporary and sustainable way. An example is when they used thatch as a facade material in a project, not only for its aesthetics

but also to reduce environmental impact. For your next project, consider Altu and you’ll be sure to have a balanced design that is innovative yet steeped in tradition.

www.altu.space

Art & design production facilities, Rotterdam (in collaboration with Cloud). Image: CLOUD + altu

Café ‘t Kanon in Ghent, Belgium.

Photo: studio stories

Altu pendant light, hand-cast resin.

Photo: Mathijs Labadie

Outdoor space of house in Kapellen.

Photo: Depasquale+Maffini.

House in Kapellen, Belgium.

Photo: Depasquale+Maffini

A MULTI-CERTIFIED SMART CAMPUS IN A SMART CITY

AT THE GATES OF LUXEMBOURG

Buzz is a « smart campus » with ecological intelligence catering to the strictest energy efficiency programs and savings.

Hyper flexible, evolutionary and scalable. The 412 to 12,933 sqm spaces easily adapt to any type of function: open spaces, meeting rooms or individual offices.

The abundance of natural light, thanks to floor to ceiling window bays, natural materials, terraces and walkways, bring a sense of well-being and a convivial atmosphere that stimulates exchange.

www.buzz.lu

www.linkedin.com/company/ buzzluxembourg

Compliant with the highest environmental standards

Gardens that dreams are made of

Erik Van Gelder has been designing top-end outdoor spaces for nearly 20 years. His constant pursuit to exceed the expectations of his customers has earned him consistent rave reviews, as well as a Garden of the Year victory in 2022. “I want my designs to feel like they were simply meant to be.”

A garden that looks stunning all year round, that feels luxurious yet superbly functional, that connects the interior and exterior spaces seamlessly, and most importantly, that allows you to relax

completely … It may sound like a dream, but Erik Van Gelder is in the business of making dreams like these a reality with his garden designs.

Van Gelder takes on projects of all sizes, from roof terraces to entire estates, both in his native Netherlands and abroad. He works with a team of dedicated specialists to ensure the highest quality in all aspects of the design, from water features to lighting and the materials he uses. The result: outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but also perfectly suited to the

needs and desires of each client. We sat down with Van Gelder to learn more about his design philosophy and what drives him as a landscape architect.

Nature and architecture in perfect harmony

Balance is the key to any good design, explains Van Gelder. “It’s essential to have the architectural elements and the outdoor space meld together seamlessly in a way that enhances both. We achieve this by taking into account sight lines, making optimal use of the natural environment,

TEXT: MAYA WITTERS | PHOTOS: PETER BAAS

choosing materials that complement each other or contrast in an interesting way. Lighting design also plays a major role in bringing the space together.”

Van Gelder’s approach to landscape design results in garden spaces that exist harmoniously within the wider landscape and that let the existing architecture shine. “We want all the pieces of the puzzle to fit together perfectly, so that it feels almost like there was no other way – that this is how it was meant to be. When the indoor and outdoor space flow into each other seamlessly, both can be used optimally by occupants. The greatest compliment for our designs is when we revisit the home and we see that the owner and their entire family are gathered in the garden, using it just as it was intended.”

As one of only a handful of landscape architects who work at this level in the Netherlands, Van Gelder’s designs have

naturally attracted the attention of the media. His designs are frequently featured in magazines and publications. He has also published his own book, Masterly Garden Design, which not only highlights his creations but also turns his design philosophy into a tangible object that looks stunning on any coffee table.

Vacation in your backyard – every single day

One central tenet of Van Gelder’s design philosophy is that of wellness in your own home. The idea of a staycation takes on an entirely new meaning in his gardens. They exude a sense of subdued luxury and elegance that is rarely found outside of top-end hotels. Investing in a Van Gelder garden means coming home every day to a space where stress can be washed away by the beauty of your surroundings.

“Creating that feeling of an escape from the flow of everyday life, that’s something we excel at,” explains Van Gelder. “Whether it’s a small roof terrace in the

bustling city or a personal oasis in the midst of nature, we want people to feel like they are on vacation every time they come home.” This commitment to excellence paid off last year when Van Gelder won the coveted Garden of the Year award for his work on a property in Zwijndrecht.

After nearly two decades in the business, Van Gelder is just as keen as ever to create dream gardens for his clients. “Winning awards is great, but surprising our customers with something that exceeds even their wildest expectations is the best feeling there is. One of our clients sent us an email after his garden was completed. He said that he had just turned on the lights while the sun was setting and that he had been staring at his own backyard for two hours, completely mesmerised by its beauty. There’s no greater compliment –that’s exactly why we do what we do.”

www.erikvangelder.com.

Browse through Erik Van Gelder’s designs and get in touch at

Erik Van Gelder.

Artisanally crafted and sustainably produced candles

On blustery autumn and winter evenings, nothing can add more warmth and cosiness to your home than the delicate glow of a beautiful, well-made candle. With their subtle elegance and enticing range of scents, Santa Luz Bougies will transform an otherwise ordinary evening into a moment really worth relishing.

Just the simple act of lighting these handcrafted candles will remind you to take a deep breath, pause and make time

for the things that matter most, such as your overall sense of well-being. A labour of love born out of the desire to put their keen entrepreneurial spirit to good use and create something truly special, Santa Luz Bougies is the brainchild of husband and wife duo Ángeles Ruiz and Gustavo Ortiz, and Gustavo’s sister Sofia Ortiz. Hailing from Argentina, they followed their dream of wanting to live in Europe and settled in Belgium in 2019. The fact that they were not experienced in this craft (Ángeles and Gustavo had a background

in law, while Sofia was working in tourism) did not deter them from bringing their plans to fruition. After schooling themselves in the art of candlemaking, they launched Santa Luz Bougies in September of 2021. Today, their range not only features six scented candles, which come in a variety of elegant shapes (from small ones measuring five centimetres in diameter, to the largest, which is 40 centimetres long), but they also offer matches, scented balls and handsome gift boxes perfect for this coming holiday season.

TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: SANTA LUZ BOUGIES

The magical world of candles

“As soon as we arrived in Belgium, we noticed that there were candles in all the houses we visited, and that candles are a cult object here, very much present in homes,” says Ángeles. “Curiosity led us to delve into the subject, and we were drawn into the magical world of candles and scents.”

The six scents that resulted from their extensive research (Cool Aloha, Jardin D’Ipanema, Vent de Calabre, Patagonia, Dulce de Leche and Mystique) were not just random choices but rather fragrances linked to their pasts and personal experiences. The highly popular Dulce de Leche candle with its ambrosial aroma of caramel and vanilla, for example, was a nod to their Argentinean culinary roots. Ángeles: “Dulce de leche is a basic ingredient in pastry making and used daily for desserts, pies and cakes. This scent takes us back to our roots, to our grandmother’s house, to that unique and irreplaceable moment that we would like to stop and freeze in our memory forever.”

When asked to recommend a scent for the upcoming colder months, Ángeles also mentions the Mystique candle: “Its perfume has a strong connection with the winter season, as it is based on incense and gives a lot of warmth.”

It isn’t only that unique personal touch that differentiates Santa Luz Bougies from the rest, or that the scents come from Grasse, the city of French haute perfumery. When creating the artisanal

candles, one of the things that was high on the Oritz’s list of priorities was sustainability. Working with biodegradable soy wax, of European origin and certified GMO-free, the candles are handmade (meaning that no two are exactly alike) with a commitment to leaving the smallest possible footprint on the planet. Each candle is encased in recyclable glass that perfectly lends itself to being reused and has a wick that is free of any chemical treatment and made of organic cotton and paper. The candles are packaged in a certified organic cotton cloth bag (which is also reusable).

The ultimate gift

With their seamless blend of aesthetic beauty and eco-conscious appeal, a candle from the Santa Luz Bougies range is as much an indispensable item in any home interior as it is an elegant (corporate) gift. The candles can be personal-

ised according to the customer’s wishes and shipped throughout Europe in recyclable packaging. Also worth mentioning are the thoughtful gift boxes, which include a candle along with an accessory and a bottle of wine from Argentina. There are even boxes with handmade Belgian chocolates.

“To give one of our candles as a gift is to offer a touch of luxury and distinction to an environment,” Ángeles explains. “It is a perfect gift because it allows you to give light and energy that can transform an environment and a person’s mood. While it is not burning, a candle is a decorative object independent of its function, which is to provide light. On the other hand, when lit, its light acts as a space-transforming element, providing a feeling of warmth, calm and peace.”

www.santaluz.be

Sofia Ortiz, Gustavo Ortiz and Ángeles Ruiz.

Ángeles Ruiz.

Design stories to lighten the heart

TEXT: SCHEENAGH HARRINGTON | PHOTOS; PHOTOS: GRAYPANTS

Fifteen years ago, two architecture school students, wearing the same grey sweatpants, found they had a common instinct about what design should be. That vision eventually became Graypants, a Seattle and Amsterdambased company that aims to not only bring beauty and illumination to their customers’ lives, but to tell the stories of the people bringing their designs to life.

Graypants co-founder Seth Grizzle admits he’s a “hopeless romantic”, with a business ethic based on Rumi’s timeless advice: ‘let the beauty of what you love be what you do’. Combined with a love and curiosity about nature, he’s never short of inspiration for the firm’s exquisite lighting.

“We had a total solar eclipse, and I went down to see it. It was such an awe-inspiring moment – you really can’t describe it until you’re in that kind of presence – but our whole Chrona series was based on seeing the corona when the moon blocks out the sun.”

Grizzle’s love of nature means sustainability is more than just a label. “We want to be good stewards of the planet. We don’t need another excuse to buy ‘stuff’. We want it to be meaningful, to tell a story and have an impact, and we don’t want it to rob the planet of much.”

A meeting at a New York trade show resulted in the Amsterdam branch of Graypants, run by Arno Ruijzenaars. He initially offered to be a distributor in the Benelux region, but Grizzle came back with a very different proposition: “I told him I had a bigger vision about using local materials and local areas,” he said, adding, “and doing social work programmes for people with needs and different skill sets than we do.”

It led to a partnership with social works programme IBN, which employs people with different skill sets, whose names are written onto every single Graypants product. “It just makes your heart smile,” says Grizzle. “These are our eyes, these are

faces, these are hands that make these objects: that’s what makes them special.”

He plans to continue expanding the business to be a leader in the lighting space. Graypants is working with more “designers, artisans and craftspeople”: bringing their stories to the world to make it just that bit brighter.

www.graypants.eu

Next generation Wick out now!

Wick by Graypants is the ultimate ambience maker and your ideal light for outdoors and indoors. This real eye-catcher has the look of an old-fashioned candlelight. The new Wick S has a slightly shorter profile for more versatility and bundles great with Wick.

Equipped with all modern conveniences, Wick is ideal to take with you when traveling or to enjoy an evening in the garden. The touch sensor with four positions ensures that the lamp is in your desired light setting. This allows Wick to imitate candlelight but also function as a bright reading light. Wick’s battery lasts up to 150 hours.

Wick S is available in brass, graphite & black. Wick is available in brass, graphite, black & white.

€ 139,€ 149,-

Benelux Business

Do you believe in ghosts?

TEXT & PHOTO: STEVE FLINDERS

I don’t personally, but I’ve met lots of people who are haunted by the ghosts of their English teachers. They are non-native speakers of English who feel that their English is not good enough for the jobs they do.

When they speak the language, they cannot escape the ghost of their old English teacher, squatting on one of their shoulders, waiting to pounce as soon as they make a mistake. Their English may be perfectly adequate for their professional needs, and yet they are so afraid to speak that they or their companies spend large amounts of money on language training to deal with the anguish.

Older French and German people suffer in particular because, in the past, the school systems in both countries emphasised not communication, but language accuracy. The problem is compounded by the fact that when they sign up for language training, they say they need more grammar. In other words, they want to try to learn in the same way as had failed them before. I prefer the maxim: “If what you’re

doing isn’t working, try something different.” They should step back and rethink.

In fact, it’s not language training they need but counselling – a friendly voice to boost their self-confidence and to demonstrate to them that their linguistic glass is, in most cases, more than half full rather than almost empty, as they believe. They also need to put the issue of their language ability into the wider context of what competences we need for good international communication.

Yes, they need an operational level in English, but that alone won’t guarantee success. We should also be competent in the professional communication skills needed to present, meet, negotiate and socialise in whatever lingua franca we work in. We need to learn skills and behaviours which will serve us well in different intercultural settings. We need interpersonal skills to be able to establish rapport, build relationships and manage conflict across cultures. We need to learn how to work in international teams and harness the energies of diverse groups of people.

These are exciting challenges but a far cry from the notion that the correct usage of the present perfect tense is the key to professional success. If you’re a non-native speaker, don’t worry about what other people may think of your English. Just brush that ghost from your shoulder and enjoy discovering your own international communication style.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com

Business Calendar

IAPP Europe Data Protection Congress 2023

13-16 November

Brussels, Belgium

Data protection professionals are convening for the 12th edition of the IAPP Congress in Brussels. The event aims to provide insights into strategic developments in both regional and international data protection. Speakers will address topics such as adapting to new technologies in ad-tech, navigating the intricacies of global policies, building governance strategies and protections for at-risk groups.

www.iapp.org/conference/iapp-europedata-protection-congress

Infrachain Summit 2023

11 October

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Taking place during the Luxembourg Blockchain Week, this summit offers a great opportunity to gain valuable insights from high-level expert speakers. The event is focused on operational blockchain use, cases and blockchain governance. It will showcase tangible business cases that can serve as exemplary best practices. www.infrachainsummit.com

European Angel Investment Summit 2023

10-11 October

Brussels, Belgium

Early stage investors, entrepreneurs and change-makers get together at EAIS to explore industry trends and promising sectors for investment, to discover angel investment around the world and build new relationships with peers from over 50 countries. This is Europe’s leading Angel Investing event, where you can expect inspiring keynotes, quality networking and pitching competitions.

www.europeanangelsummit.com

World Summit AI

11-12 October

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

The world is changing, and the benefits, risks and application of the strategies on AI need to be carefully examined. At the World Summit AI, experts and industry professionals from enterprise, big tech, science and academia come together to explore the latest developments and to nourish the important conversation about the recent rise of AI technologies.

www.worldsummit.ai

Digital Marketing World Forum (#DMWF)

Europe 2023

21-22 November

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

For two days in November, RAI Amsterdam becomes the central stage for a big digital marketing event. Over 50 inspiring speakers will tackle subjects like content and digital brand strategy, data and insights, social media marketing, generative AI and marketing, to name just a few.

www.digitalmarketing-conference.com/ europe

TEXT: DANA MARIN

European Angel Investment Summit.

Infrachain Summit.

Digital Marketing World Forum.

Redefining the insurance landscape

For over a century, Baloise Vie Luxembourg has established itself as a pioneer in Luxembourg, offering exceptional experience and expertise to both local and international clients. The company’s solid market position enables them to provide innovative and customised life insurance solutions to a high-end clientele.

Among their range of services, the life insurance contract stands out as the most suitable solution for succession planning. It provides a personalised solution that allows individuals to tailor their wealth planning and to combine long-term investments from a range of options permitted by Luxembourg law. The life insurance contract also facilitates succession planning, allowing the client to designate one or more beneficiaries in the event of his passing.

One notable feature of Baloise’s life insurance is its unit-linked contract, which is without doubt a very popular product and results as a highly attractive combination of life insurance with investment

and estate planning. This tool provides a high level of flexibility to the policyholder, namely on what changing beneficiaries entails and continuity of policy by the beneficiaries (by way of maintenance upon death of life assured). It also offers a high level of protection of assets and an advantageous tax regime (depending on the policyholder’s country of residence), among others.

Foreigners tend to be more drawn to this coverage because it aligns with the laws of their country of residence, making processes much simpler. Accessible from different European countries, including Luxembourg, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany and Poland, it ensures flexibility and provides opportunities for individuals who want to receive financial proficiency. Sandra Bento, Head of Legal, Wealth Planning and Product Management, explains: “Life insurance is an extraordinary tool to protect and structure an estate.”

Moreover, opting for Luxembourg as a place to invest is also a wise choice,

since clients can benefit from the country’s fiscal neutrality, its financial expertise and a stable political, economic and social environment. The country’s solid regulatory framework and strict financial supervision are crucial for international investors seeking long-term security. Luxembourg also offers unique protection for policyholders, known as the ‘triangle of security’, which is further reinforced by the super privilege. This added measure of protection gives policyholders peace of mind by granting them priority access to the cash value and benefits of their policy in case of insolvency, offering an extra level of security and reassurance.

www.baloise-life.com/lux/en/int.html

TEXT: TRISTANA PERRONCEL | PHOTOS: BALOISE VIE LUXEMBOURG & STOCK IMAGES OWNED BY BALOISE VIE LUXEMBOURG

Baloise Vie Luxembourg headquarters.

Bring your creativity.

We’ll do the same

Elten Kiene is entrepreneurial and recognizes opportunities. He teaches workshops at schools in Rotterdam and in museums and youth detention centers throughout the Netherlands. He also creates programs and recently developed theater programs. This versatile artist uses the spoken word as his instrument.

Elten believes that we must view art through the lens of what it can be. For everyone. “Art is a very important tool for everyone. I believe that art can help make things bearable. Not just visual art but also books, music, or dance. Art can help you understand yourself and can provide comfort and support if you’re going through a rough patch. It’s there for you in good times and bad. I believe that everyone has a creative skill and discovering that skill

can be quite an enjoyable process.”

“For me being an artist in the Netherlands means freedom, possibilities, and discovering new ways of the self. The writing process reveals new ideas, new thoughts about myself, and new values. It also provides clarity on what I want to pursue, or not. Writing takes me on a continuous journey of discovery; a journey that’s always in motion.”

Name Elten Kiene / Age 38

Position/ organization Author and spoken word artist / City Rotterdam

See more on holland.com/bringyourself

Elten Kiene (38), a spoken word artist in Rotterdam, was born in Suriname and raised in Dordrecht. He speaks of his journey with gratitude and confidence.

Out & About

The beautiful autumn is here and the colourful foliage and crisp air invite walks in the park, warm drinks and cosy evenings. It’s the time for harvest festivals and indoor activities. From markets to film festivals, from music to photography exhibitions, the golden season has a lot on offer for Benelux!

TEXT: DANA MARIN

Luxembourg Art Week. Photo: Sophie Margue

‘Crossing cultures’. New and established artists from all over the world will enchant the audience during the three days of concerts.

www.concertgebouw.be/nl/jazzbrugge-2023

Art Nouveau Brussels

Until December, Brussels, Belgium

Brussels has declared the year 2023 as the Art Nouveau Year, celebrating 130 years since architect Victor Horta put the finishing touches to Tassel House, the seminal work that founded the Art Nouveau movement in Brussels. The programme includes a variety of events organised throughout the year in the Brussels region, featuring open access to architectural masterpieces, workshops, lectures, guided tours and more. www.brussels.be/art-nouveaubrussels-2023

Veiner Nëssmoort

15 October, Vianden, Luxembourg

The nut market in Vianden takes place yearly, on every second Sunday of October. Nëssmoort is a market with a long history: the first official nut market was Jazz

Film Fest Gent

10-21 October, Ghent, Belgium

This year, Film Fest Gent celebrates its 50th anniversary! Under the title of ‘FFG Rewind’, the festival reflects on its history through a campaign featuring iconic photos of film stars who have graced its presence over the years. The international film festival has been held annually in October since 1974. Around 100,000 visitors are expected to attend this special cultural event and enjoy the premiere of quality films. The festival places a particular focus on film music, organising film music concerts, seminars and workshops. www.filmfestival.be

Jazz Brugge

17-19 November, Bruges, Belgium

The 9th edition of Jazz Brugge, organised by the arts centre KAAP and Concertgebouw Bruges will have as a keynote

Brugge. Photo: Arthur Wollenweber

Amsterdam Storytelling Festival.

Photo: Raymond van Mil

held in 1935. The small village of Vianden welcomes around 20,000 visitors for this special occasion. While nuts and nut-related products take centre stage, the market also features stalls selling other local delicacies. Additionally, there’s a designated area with music and entertainment for kids.

www.nessmoort.lu

Luxembourg Art Week

10-12 November, Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg Art Week is an international contemporary art fair that presents a curated selection of galleries from around the world, offering visitors the opportu-

nity to discover amazing contemporary art. The event also serves as a platform for emerging galleries and artists’ collectives. In addition to exhibitions, Art Week hosts conferences, performances, workshops and other special projects.

www.luxembourgartweek.lu

Mensen Zeggen Dingen

19 October, Leiden, the Netherlands

Mensen Zeggen Dingen (People Say Things) is a platform for poetry and performance, orchestrating a multitude of spoken word events across the Netherlands and Belgium. These events gather poets, prose and theatre writers, musicians and other artists to craft remarka-

ble shows filled with captivating stories. This holds true also for the upcoming event scheduled for October in Leiden, which is awaiting its visitors with open arms (or microphones).

www.nobel.nl/programma/mensenzeggen-dingen-19-oct-2023

Afrovibes Festival

4-15 October, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht, the Netherlands

Afrovibes is a festival of arts and performance from and about Africa. This year’s theme is ‘Liquid Traces’, exploring the connection between oceans and Africa’s history. An extensive programme will be brought on stage by artists from the Afri-

Film Fest Gent. Photo: Jeroen Willems

can continent (with a focus on East Africa in 2023), as well as from the African diaspora in the Netherlands. Attendees can choose from dance shows, theatre, design exhibitions, debates and workshops, organised in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht.

www.afrovibes.nl

Vincent Was Here, Karin Borghouts exhibition

Until 29 October, Nuenen, the Netherlands

In the first exhibition of the new museum in Nuenen dedicated to the famous painter Vincent Van Gogh, photographer Karin Borghouts explores the boundaries between photography and painting. She photographed some of the places where

Van Gogh travelled and also reconstructed and photographed more than 30 of his still lifes.

www.vangoghbrabant.com/nl/home/ nuenen/tentoonstellingen/vincent-washere

The Amsterdam Storytelling Festival

1-5 November, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

For five days in November, Podium Mozaïek is the place to be for storytelling lovers. Storytellers from around the world will explore this year’s theme, ‘Liberation’ and share their unique takes on the subject. It won’t be easy to choose from the 22 shows, complemented with workshops and debates, live music and more! www.storytellingfestival.nl/

Afrovibes Festival.

Photo: Christian Gil

Photo: Art Nouveau Brussels

IDFA Festival

8-19 November, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Each year in November since 1988, Amsterdam has been the host of the world’s largest documentary film festival: The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam. This festival is a treasure trove and a haven for documentary enthusiasts and should not be missed. Documentaries from across the globe are screened in various cinemas and other locations, and the event attracts international guests, eager to attend the premieres, talks and competitions. www.idfa.nl

Vincent was here.

Photo: Willeke Machiels

IDFA. Photo: Jurre Rompa

Expand your horizons in Leuven

TEXT: MONIQUE GADELLA

Leuven in Belgium offers a new perspective on its most famous painter, Dieric Bouts (c 1414 - 1475). A threemonth-long exhibition is accompanied by an extensive festival that includes lectures, guided tours, culinary interpretations of 15th-century recipes and many other activities. It’s a great reason to visit the historic city of Leuven this winter.

Never before have so many works by the artist been brought together in an exhibition called Dieric Bouts. Creator of Images, which will run at M Leuven until 14 January 2024. Masterpieces from the National Gallery in London, the Louvre in Paris, the

Prado in Madrid, the Fine Arts Museum in San Francisco and from other locations have been brought together for the first time. What is different about this retrospective exhibition is that a radical confrontation with art from today will give visitors a novel perspective on Bouts’ paintings.

The mayor of Leuven, Mohamed Ridouani, says: “Dieric Bouts was a pioneer of his time as an inhabitant of Leuven and city painter. We honour him as an innovator and explorer of new horizons.” He was the first painter in the Low Countries to use a single-point perspective, which had only been used by Italian contemporaries so far. His landscape paintings drew people

‘The Fall of the Damned’ Dieric Bouts, Palais des Beaux-Art Lille © RMN-Grand Palais Lille. – Stéphane Maréchalle | ‘Republic Attack Gunships on Geonosis’, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones (2002), digital concept art, Ryan Church © Lucas Museum of Narrative Arts, Los Angeles.

City Hall Leuven.

Photo: Karl Bruninx

Bar Jerome is offering a Bouts dish. Photo:_Karl Bruninx

in like never before. His work was often fantastical, but seemed realistic. Original storyboards of the Star Wars films will be shown in the exhibition to contrast Bouts’ work with today’s landscape fantasy.

The museum is also collaborating with Adalberto Simeone, professor at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Leuven. A specialist in 3D, he zooms in on the different ways in which perspective is used in video games to create realistic, digital worlds.

Contrasting the tradition of the Madonna portraits by Bouts, are photographer and filmmaker Charlotte Abramow and stylist-fashion consultant Tom Eerebout, who curate a selection of contemporary fashion and celebrity photographs. Abromow is known for her collaboration with Belgian singer Angèle; Eerebout worked with Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue and Rita Ora, among others. These are other ways to compare contemporary imagery with Bouts’ imagination.

First and Last Supper

Bouts’ magnus opus, The Last Supper, was painted especially for the Saint Peter’s Church in Leuven and is normally still in situ, but has been transferred to the museum to be seen along with his other works. To replace this important artwork, an installation called The Migration of

Wings will be on display. It’s a contemplation in image and sound on the triptych’s dismantling and forced migration by the American artist Jill Magid.

To ensure that more than your artistic buds are tickled, your taste buds will also be in for a treat with the Bouts on Your Plate programme. Local brewery Hof ten Dormaal will brew its Bouts Beer (a Leuven wheat beer, crafted after extensive research into the beers of 600 years ago). Cheese master Elsen is using this refreshing drink to brine its Bouts Cheese, giving it a unique flavour. Several restaurants

serve special Bouts dishes. The original beer-food pairing ‘The First Supper’ by Brewery De Coureur is a great starter to your culinary discovery tour.

Find Dieric Bouts on foot

Swept up in Bouts’ wake, visitors are also invited to stroll the Town Hall’s historic rooms. Bouts and Beyond allows you to come closer to the painter and his unique relationship with Leuven through an audio-guided trail. Journey from 1468 to the present day as authentic archive documents and audiovisual installations immerse you in the stories, personalities and perspectives of then and now.

To experience the medieval times of Bouts even more, join a city tour, which starts at the flamboyant Town Hall. The guide takes you to the place where Bouts bought his paints, tells you about his extensive social life and makes you see the vibrant city through the painter’s eyes. Another tour shows you pioneers and visionaries who mapped the world, travelled to far-flung places and discovered new inventions.

The ‘New Horizons’ festival also offers Belgium’s first 4D music festival, groundbreaking performances, exhibitions, club nights and more. Come and expand your horizons in Leuven.

www.diericboutsfestival.be

Virgin and Child. Photo: Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

Dieric Bouts’ ‘The Last Supper.

Photo: Dominique Provost

Elsen cheesemakers uses Bouts beer.

Photo: Karl Bruninx

Discovering the treasures of ‘s-Hertogenbosch

TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL CENTRAL

For anyone who loves art, culture, design and good food, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is a true mecca of creativity and discoveries. Within the historic walls of this Dutch city, lovers of specialities will find a wealth of experiences that will truly surprise them. Here are a few highlights selected for you. And after a day out exploring, enjoy a memorable stay at Golden Tulip Hotel Central.

Design Museum Den Bosch is a hidden gem for design fanatics. It’s a source of aesthetics where design is key. Intriguing and regularly changing exhibitions showcase the evolution of design – from classic to cutting-edge – giving visitors a deeper understanding of the power of form and function.

At the Noordbrabants Museum, history is transformed into art. Here, every art lover will find a wealth of artworks, artisanal pieces and historical objects shedding light on the heritage of the province of North Brabant. The museum has original

paintings of Vincent van Gogh. Don’t forget Jheronimus Bosch in the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center of House of Bosch.

A hub of ceramic talent, Cor Unum is the ultimate destination for anyone who appreciates the combination of craft and functionality. Here, ceramics come to life as an art form, thanks to the collaboration between modern artists, designers and craftsmen. The studio on Vughterstraat offers an intimate and instructive insight into the processes and thoughts behind the ceramic creations.

And what about Jan de Groot’s ‘Bossche Bol’ (giant chocolate-covered cream puff)? More than a local delicacy, it’s pure enjoyment! The ‘Bossche Bol’ is not only delightful, but also truly Instagram-worthy. Treat yourself to one at Brasserie Cé, the hotel’s own restaurant.

While you immerse yourself in a world of art and culture, a walk through the exclusive shopping street Verwerstraat should not be missed. Discover a unique range

of shops and temptingly beautiful shop windows not found in other Dutch cities. Visit the oldest brick house (KLM house 101)Moriaan or admire the nature and city walls from a boattour.

‘s-Hertogenbosch offers city-trippers an experience full of surprises, intellectual challenges and inspiration. It prompts you to think outside the box, discover new perspectives and, above all, enjoy the Burgundian lifestyle.

After a day out, bring family, friends or colleagues for a carefree stay at Golden Tulip Hotel Central. Sleeping, eating, meeting, a party – as the local saying expresses: “Wij zien oe gère!” (“We love to see you here!”)

Brasserie Cé invites you to stop by and sample a range of delights to celebrate the season and local produce. Making guests feel comfortable is a promise at Cé and Golden Tulip Hotel Central.

www.hotel-central.nl

Find hidden treasure in Brussels

Belgium has been hiding a treasure for 600 years. That’s the slogan of the KBR museum, which lets you discover Europe’s Golden Age through beautifully preserved manuscripts and objects. Don’t miss this hidden gem on your next visit to Brussels!

The KBR museum brings to life the late medieval and early Renaissance heritage of the Low Countries, centred around the Library of the Dukes of Burgundy. This fascinating collection of manuscripts, many illustrated with enchanting miniatures, takes

visitors on a hands-on journey through the colourful history of Europe.

Due to the fragile nature of the books, none of them can be exhibited permanently. Instead, the manuscripts on display are rotated every six months, with particular themes highlighted each time. The focal point of the current collection is Jacob van Maerlant’s Rijmbijbel, the oldest known illustrated manuscript in Dutch that has been completely preserved. This masterpiece contains over 150 exquisite miniatures, which have been brought to life thanks to meticulous digitisation.

TEXT: MAYA WITTERS | PHOTOS: KBR

KBR is not what you might expect from a history-themed museum: here, characters dance on the ceiling and whisper in your ear, you can get hands-on with the manuscripts or design your own miniature. In short, this is a museum that can be discovered over and over again. The Maerlant-themed collection is on display until 7 January, when the museum will close until the autumn of 2024. All the more reason to go hunting for Brussels’ hidden treasure this coming season!

www.kbr.be

Gifts with a story and symbolism

Instead of traditional gifts like a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers, why not give a tree in a beautifully packaged presentation? Geefeenboompje. nl, which translates to ‘give a tree’ offers the chance to give a meaningful and symbolic present. Whether it’s for a newlywed couple, to celebrate a birth or as a corporate promotional present, you can infuse your gift with a compelling narrative.

Ester Slokkers, the owner, shares that the tradition of gifting trees dates back to the era of the Kelts. “Many traditions and myths from that period have been documented, and we proudly carry on this legacy.” With a selection of 10 distinct tree species, each carrying its unique symbolism, you can choose the perfect tree to convey your message. “Each of our gift packages includes a detailed description of the tree’s symbolism. For instance, the hazelnut tree

symbolises knowledge, wisdom and inspiration. We provide a tree species that aligns perfectly with every occasion, individual, or company,” explains Slokkers.

Caring for your gifted tree varies depending on the species. Detailed information, such as tree size, can be found on our website geefeenboompje.nl,” says Slokkers. “Some trees remain compact and are ideal for balconies or pots, while others thrive in larger gardens and require planting in the ground.” Slokkers continues:

TEXT: DEBBY GROOTEMAN

GEEFEENBOOMPJE.NL

“While our tree gifts contribute to a greener world, the true essence lies in the story and symbolism they carry. In today’s consumer-driven society, finding a meaningful gift for someone who seemingly has everything can be a challenge. The concept of gifting a tree is rooted in the idea of creating lasting memories for special occasions, ones that will still resonate 15 or 20 years from now.”

www.geefeenboompje.nl

PHOTOS:

Imge Özbilge in her Antwerp studio, surrounded by her work.

The fascinating world of Imge Özbilge

Though she currently calls Antwerp home, multidisciplinary artist Imge Özbilge’s cosmopolitan background has certainly left its mark on her work. Özbilge’s whimsical creations (whether on paper or screen) merge Eastern and Western influences, drawing the viewer in with their mythological figures, richly layered meaning and captivating detailing.

Stand before one of Özbilge’s artworks or watch one of her films and prepare to embark on an enthralling journey into a fascinating world. One that has emerged not only from research, but also from the artist’s subconscious and the influence of her multicultural background. Born in Vienna in 1987, Özbilge lived in Spain, Turkey and the Netherlands. She received a BA in the Arts from Istanbul Bilgi University in 2009 and continued her studies in the Netherlands and Belgium, obtaining an MA in Animation from the St. Joost School of Art and Design in ‘s-Hertogenbosch (2012) and an advanced master’s degree at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (KASK) in Ghent (2016).

In her work, which is greatly inspired by Miniature Art, Özbilge does not eschew controversial, spiritual or political themes. Exemplary of the way she conveys deeper meaning are her short films, Mosaic, which earned an Honorary Mention at Ars Electronica, and award-winning Camouflage, selected for the Cannes Film Festival in 2017 (on view at the M HKA until the end of September). We spoke with this multi-talented creative about her life and artistic career.

When did you become interested in art?

Growing up in an artistic family, my interest in the arts came naturally. Visiting museums and following artistic workshops were part of my weekly routine and up-

bringing. In Vienna, I regularly visited the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Secession exhibition centre. When I moved to Istanbul, a very cosmopolitan city, my interest shifted to the contemporary arts. I remember visiting an exhibiting of German sculptor Erwin Wurm at the Akbank Arts Centre when I was 16, and that also had a strong impact on me.

Tell us about your multicultural background.

Due to my father’s work as an IT professional, we lived in Spain for a short period of time when I was quite young. We then

moved back to Vienna, and at the age of 14, I went to Istanbul, where I lived for 10 years. Thereafter, I went to the Netherlands to pursue my first master’s. I stayed there for three years and have been in Antwerp for the past nine years.

What makes the city so appealing to you?

Like Istanbul, Antwerp is a harbour city that brings many different cultures together. Antwerp has a layered history, and I find that very appealing. The city also offers a lot within the arts. There are many interesting galleries, art events and great

TEXT: PAOLA WESTBEEK | PHOTOS: JONATHAN KARSILO

Ishtar (Mesopotamian Goddess), ink and acrylic on acid-free paper.

art institutions. Many important collectors from abroad come to Antwerp to scout talent. You wouldn’t think that there’s as much happening as say in Brussels, but actually there’s a very vivid art scene here.

For my partner and I, Antwerp also has a special place in our hearts. I also like that it’s a big enough city where you can walk around incognito and that it’s a cycling city. In Vienna, I used to cycle everywhere. That was impossible in Istanbul, which is large and chaotic. Here, cycling is an important aspect of my daily life.

You are especially interested in mythology and Miniature Art. Why and how did this interest come about?

When I was in Istanbul, I noticed that Turkey was very much oriented towards western mythology and folk tales. There’s a lot of fantasy literature based on western stories, and sadly, I noticed that native stories were often overlooked. In 2009, during my master’s studies, I started looking into the visualisation of folk tales and urban legends from Anatolia and the region of Turkey and stumbled upon Miniature Art, an ancient art form depicting mythological stories. This led me to find a contemporary language to visualise Miniature Art. I deliberately use the words ‘Anatolia’ and ‘Anatolian mythologies’ in my practice instead of ‘Turk-

ish mythologies’ because mythology is something very comparative. Carl Jung mentions how different societies have been generating similar myths without being in contact with each other. He sees this as proof of our similarities as humankind. Our subconscious generates the same myths as we deal with similar existential matters, and I find that very beautiful. In a geography such as Anatolia in the Middle East, where so many different cultures have lived (and still live) together, these stories have been carried mouth to mouth. I believe that they belong to the people and not to a specific nation. For

me and in my practice, mythological stories certainly have a uniting aspect.

How else has your multicultural background influenced your work?

One of the biggest advantages of being bicultural is that you never really feel at home anywhere, which leads you to question everyday life matters more while keeping your curiosity alive and making you pay attention to details you wouldn’t notice otherwise. Since I moved so much while growing up, this curiosity became part of my daily life and was integrated into my practice.

Exhibition view from Standing Water Singing Stones at the Whitehouse Gallery.

Fish, collection M HKA.

Lion detail, Chinese ink on acid-free paper. Dragon detail, Chinese ink on acid-free paper.

Imge Özbilge’s studio in Antwerp.

Can you give us a specific example of a project that merges different cultures?

All of my works do that indirectly, because art creates a universal language, leaves space for interpretation and can be wrapped in multiple layers. Mosaic was a project for which I paid special attention to the multicultural societal structure of the Middle East, for example, when creating the protagonists, who come from different cultural minorities. I wanted to give them subtle cultural elements, but at the same time, keep them universal and approachable for different audiences. It is the richness of these minorities that makes the geography of the Middle East so chaotic and yet so beautiful. Coming from a mixed background, it’s very important for me to show these layers of society.

Camouflage (my graduation project for my second master’s at KASK in Ghent), for example, tells the story of two women from different backgrounds and their forbidden friendship, despite their differences.

In your work, we see the influence of surrealism. Which artists have inspired you and why?

Works by Leonora Carrington and Salvador Dalí have always fascinated me, but I am also a big admirer of Hieronymus Bosch, who greatly inspired Dalí. Surrealists were fascinated by occultism and mythology. In 1935, André Breton proclaimed that one of Surrealism’s most urgent tasks was the creation of collective myths. I very much agree as I feel that at times like these, in which we seem to lack a collective spirit in tackling urgent matters like climate change, we need to create collective myths in order to work together as a society.

What else inspires you?

Pretty much everything. I do watch a lot of movies, try to read a lot and visit many expositions. In that sense, Antwerp is really nurturing. There are always a lot of openings and interesting exhibitions taking place.

Next to my practice, my biggest passion is travelling. I try to travel as much as possible, which isn’t always easy to combine with my work, but it’s definitely something that really nurtures my mind.

What does the artistic process look like for you, from idea to finished work?

If I’m working on a film project, it’s much more structured. A film that uses animation requires a lot more planning. In that case, I often work with a production house, and I’ve collaborated with my sister (Sine Özbilge) on certain projects. For a film project, it starts with writing a script, followed by storyboarding, developing background visuals and then working with animators. It’s a pretty long process. Mosaic, for example, a 15-minute film, took three years to finalise. We had a team of four animators who used frame-by-frame animation, which is very labour intensive. One animator can only animate four seconds per day.

Most projects, even film, start with a sketch. Sometimes these sketches evolve into a script which ends up in a narrative film project, or it might just evolve into an installation or remain as a series of paintings. I feel that I can be a bit more chaotic in my paintings and just see where the work leads me.

What has been your most memorable project so far?

That’s a difficult question, but for now, since it’s the most recent project I’ve worked on, I would say Standing Water Singing Stones (Whitehouse Gallery, Lovenjoel, 12 March to 16 April 2023), a dual exhibition with Dutch sculptor Warre Mulders. It was such a beautiful experience and a harmonious collaboration.

We were both really drawn to each other’s work, and through this exhibition we realised that we have a lot in common in our artistic practice. I think collaborations create a special energy. This is still a project that resonates with me.

How has your work evolved over time?

I am constantly looking to reinvent my work and searching for new ways of storytelling. I do see an evolution in the scale of my projects. For example, the Whitehouse Gallery was the biggest venue I’ve ever exhibited at. I was actually a little overwhelmed, wondering if I was going to be able to fill all the walls. The exhibition also included larger-scale paintings on big paper rolls – a change from my usual works which are not more than a metre and a half in size.

What does the future have in store for you?

I would really like to work on more collaborations or perhaps collaborate on a theatre piece by making background sets or video projections. And I would love to gain some work experience in the United States.

Currently, I am working on two short films and a collective feature film project together with five other directors. I also have a book publication project running and two upcoming exhibitions. So it’s actually pretty busy, and there will be plenty of work in the coming year.

Camouflage will be on view at the M HKA until the end of September.

Leeuwarden: Cultural capital, gateway city

Leeuwarden may not have the name recognition of Amsterdam or The Hague, but it offers plenty to draw in tourists seeking an under-the-radar experience in the Netherlands. It was named a European Capital of Culture in 2018 – and it hasn’t slowed down since, continuing to punch above its weight in food and art.

TEXT: LIAM GREENWELL

Texel, one of the Wadden Islands, is home to lighthouses and nature walks.

Photo: Marieke Koenders

What sets the city apart is its status as the capital of the province of Friesland. Here, the Frisian language enjoys status alongside Dutch, and locals are proud of their unique heritage. English speakers should keep their ears open – Frisian is the most similar language to English surviving in the world, according to linguists.

After indulging in the city’s world-class shopping and food for every palate and budget, use Leeuwarden as a springboard to explore the enchanting region that surrounds it. You may feel like the only tourist in town, but that doesn’t mean there’s not plenty to keep you busy.

Indulgent capital

A two-hour train ride from Amsterdam Central Station takes you northeast into Friesland, famous for its eleven cities that dot the grassy countryside. Spot dykes,

cows and windmills before pulling into the modern provincial capital of Leeuwarden.

The first thing you may see is a Ferris wheel marking the edge of downtown, and that should be your first stop to get a birds-eye view. Leeuwarden is over a millennium old, having been founded back in the 9th century. These days, though, it’s a refreshing combination of old and new, far from the touristic bustle of the country’s largest cities.

In the Nieuwestad neighbourhood, start your visit with some Frisian specialties in one of the many restaurants that puts an emphasis on local ingredients. At Brasserie Spiegelaar, for instance, enjoy classic dishes while overlooking the canal; at Smakelijk, dig into more casual fare in a bright and cosy space.

To walk off your meal, there’s no better place than Leeuwarden’s Kleine Kleerkstraat. Voted the best shopping street in all of the Netherlands (beating out heavy-hitters in Amsterdam and Rotterdam) multiple times, the pedestrian-friendly avenue is home to local artisans, street food and boutique clothing stores. Clothes shopping in Leeuwarden is on par with much larger cities, with both local and international boutique brands. If you’re looking for a more alternative vibe, try the Voorstreek for vinyl records, skateboards and much more.

Cultural capital

Leeuwarden has only improved as a centre of culture and art in the years since 2018 when it was named the EU capital –and it has the credits to prove it. There are over 800 Rijksmonumenten (National Heritage Sites) in the city, with one of the

Leeuwarden’s ferris wheel overlooks the city centre. Photo: Joppe Spaa

The Gabeema Gasthuis, in Art Nouveau style, is one of many Rijksmonumenten in the city.

Photo: Joppe Spaa

most iconic being the Oldehove, an unfinished tower built in the 16th century. No, you’re not in Pisa: Leeuwarden’s city symbol is indeed tilted. The construction was abandoned after attempts to straighten it failed, but the tower was never demolished. Instead, it still stands – albeit at an angle – and visitors to the top are treated to one of the best views in the city.

Another highlight of the city is the Fries Museum, which offers an introduction to both the origins of the region as well as the contemporary realities of the area. Explore the

story of Grutte Pier, at turns celebrated as a folk hero or derided as a pirate, and marvel at his storied sword. Alternatively, see the exhibition that documents the brave efforts of locals to resist the Nazi occupation.

Transition from the old to the new with a street art walking tour. One must-see is the Love sculpture outside the train station, designed by noted installation artist Jaume Plensa. This sculpture of the heads of a boy and a girl plays with perspective and is a suitably trippy way to cap any visit.

Also, if you happen to see some miniature people figurines on ledges or windowsills across town, don’t be surprised. There are 67 different “scenes”, created by Michel Tilma, who left his subjects in their place to be found after he was done with his photos. Challenge yourself to find as many locations as possible around the old city!

Gateway city

But visitors should not limit themselves to the city itself, as Leeuwarden is a perfect jumping-off point to explore Friesland and its ten other historic cities. In Sneek, the former port capital of the region, seek

Sixty-seven different “scenes” starring miniature figurines of people dot the old city of Leeuwarden. Photo: Visit Leeuwarden

Kleine Kerkstraat is the perfect place for a shopping run. Photo: Visit Leeuwarden

out the monumental Waterpoort, a beautiful gate that used to provide protection to the city’s waterways from invaders. In Bolsward, alternatively, stop at the 13th-century Broerekerk church that still has a grandiose character, despite being gutted by a fire in 1980.

However, the real draw of the region lies off the coast. Like teardrops falling from the mainland, the Frisian (or Wadden) Islands are a bastion of Frisian culture and are as remote as you can get in this small country. Start on Texel, the largest of the islands, where you can wander enjoying white-

sand beaches, cultural museums and picturesque lighthouses. If you want to go for a more isolated option, the island of Schiermonnikoog is mostly a National Park, and if you’re lucky, you may spot seals rolling in the sand. Known to have the darkest night skies in the country, the island is also a perfect place to unplug from the cultural immersion of Leeuwarden.

However you choose to structure your trip to Leeuwarden and Friesland, you’re sure to come away with an appreciation for the region’s unique culture – and a desire to return.

Visitors from nearby Leeuwarden relax on dikes in Friesland’s countryside.

Photo: Gabrielle Capella

The Oldehove tower tilts over the city square, which plays host to a number of cultural and artistic events throughout the year.

Photo: Visit Friesland

Schiessentümpel waterfall.

Photo: Cedric Letsch on Unsplash

48 hours in Luxembourg’s oldest city

In the east of the country, encircled by rolling hills and primeval forests, bearing the testimonies of times long gone, lies the oldest city in Luxembourg: Echternach. This enchanting place beckons travellers with its rich history, cultural treasures and breathtaking natural beauty.

TEXT: DANA MARIN

Echternach is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxed getaway, enriched with fascinating history and amazing nature. Located in the Mullerthal (Müllerthal) region, Luxembourg’s ‘Little Switzerland’, caressed by the River Sauer at the border with Germany and featuring a lake and a recreational area, as well as many vestiges from the past, this 5,000 inhabitants town is a magnet for tourists.

The story of Echternach began in 698, when the English monk Willibrord from Northumbria established an abbey there. Willibrord is Luxembourg’s patron saint, and he is celebrated today through the Dancing Procession held every year on Whit Tuesday. This procession is so famous that it was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. But the settlement goes back to even older

times, when the area was occupied by the Romans and the settlement was an important trading post. The remains of a Roman villa – reputed to be the largest north of the Alps – remind us of those long-gone days.

Day 1 – Delve into the town’s history

Echternach is a small place, with all the points of interest close to each other. Start the first day by exploring the history of this old town and its cultural legacy. The four-towered Saint-Willibrord Basilica is a good starting point. This Romanesque church has witnessed 1,300 years of history and had its first stone set by the monk Willibrord around 700, when he settled in Echternach. The basilica stands on the site of a small Merovingian church, the crypt of which has survived and is now the resting place of Saint Willibrord. Here, you can see the white mar-

ble sarcophagus that was a pilgrimage site for centuries. Next to the church is the Benedictine Abbey, built in Lorraine style from 1727 to 1736. The building has functioned as a school since 1899, and it can’t be visited, but you can learn all about its history at the Abbey Museum, located in the basement of the abbey. The museum contains facsimiles of the magnificent medieval manuscripts from the Echternach School, among which is the Codex Aureus Epternacensis, as well as work material from former times and information on Saint Willibrord and ecclesiastical history.

After all this time underground, you’ll need fresh air. Take a walk in the abbey garden, where you can also visit the Orangerie, which was the former guesthouse of Echternach Abbey. Head to the municipal park to see the Pavilion and then walk around

Echternach Hopping Procession.

Photo: Stadtmarketing Echternach

Echternach Basilica.

Photo: Pierre Haas

the old city centre to admire what’s left of the city wall. In his days of glory, around the 13th century, this wall was 2,000 metres long, and it featured 20 towers and four gates. Only four towers remain today, and some of them were transformed into accommodation for tourists – sleeping there will add to the medieval atmosphere of the trip!

At lunch, weather permitted, sit at one of the outdoor restaurants in the market square and admire the Denzelt, the former Palace of Justice, and the Cross of Justice. This market also offers a great view over the hills surrounding the town and over the buildings exhibiting traditional Luxembourgish architecture.

After lunch, it’s time to discover the Roman heritage of Echternach. Check out The Peter and Paul Church, which was

built upon the remains of an ancient Roman fort. In Merovingian times, the Roman fort housed a small convent, which was donated to Willibrord in 698 by Abbess lrmina from Trier.

Now it’s time to find your way to the Gallo-Roman villa, which was discovered in 1975 during excavation work for the artificial lake. You can learn about life during Roman times at the museum, which depicts everyday scenes using life-sized figures. After visiting the villa, you can take a walk around the lake, enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature.

Day 2 – Hiking or castles

On day two, depending on your preferences, choose to either go for a hike on the Mullerthal Trail or visit the Beaufort castles. Or both, if you have enough energy!

Echternach is the gateway to the Mullerthal region, and the Mullerthal Trail takes you through a splendid forested area, passing by rock formations reminiscent of a fairy tale, waterfalls and viewpoints to admire the region. Wollefsschlucht (Wolf Gorge) is one of the famous points on the trail, which has inspired many legends over the years.

The trail is around 112 kilometres, and it’s not possible to finish it in one day, but you can hike only a part of it, like the Mullerthal E1 trail, which is 13 kilometres and takes you along some highlights of the region.

If hiking is not your thing and you’d prefer immersing even more in medieval history or the luxury of a castle, take a trip to Beaufort to visit the two castles: the Medieval Castle (built in four stages, be-

Echternach Basilica, view from St Peter & Paul Church.

Photo: Stadtmarketing Echternach

tween 1050 and 1650) and the Renaissance Castle, built in 1649 next to the medieval castle. They are open only from April to early November and are splendid architectural highlights surrounded by lush forests.

Conclude your Echternach visit with a dinner at one of the restaurants serving dishes made with local ingredients, and pair it with a local wine (see our wine special in the July issue) as you reminisce about the 48 hours in the oldest city in Luxembourg.

Echternach Lake, aerial view.

Photo: Stadtmarketing Echternach

Echternach Market Place, the Cross of Justice.

Photo: Stadtmarketing Echternach

Beer without the alcohol buzz

Drinking alcohol-free is a growing trend in many countries, but has it taken hold in Belgium, a country synonymous with great beer and a brewing tradition that dates back hundreds of years? Trappist, lambic, fruit, brown, blonde, sour, wheat – they’re all part of the fabric of Belgian society. Could this be threatened by the emergence of low alcohol alternatives?

It’s not so much a threat as a new way of drinking, says Kevin Lhoest, zythologist and founder of Hoptimalt Beer Academy in Namur, which teaches eager students about Belgium’s different beer styles and regional brewing traditions. Lhoest also delivers international certification training –one of only three training centres in the world outside the USA to do so – and

offers a consultancy service to breweries. He says alcohol-free beer is particularly popular among younger adults, with sales of non-alcoholic beers rising by more than 10% per year. “It’s growing in popularity with men and women. There are all styles now, and there’s a beer for everyone. It’s more about generation than gender,” says Lhoest.

“Older people say a beer is a beer. I can’t give an alcohol-free beer to my father. It’s not a beer for him. But for young people, it’s really great because they can drink more. It doesn’t affect you physically, and you can also drive a car.”

These days, you’ll find at least one or two alcohol-free choices in any pub, café or

TEXT: LISA BURN

Photo: Pexels, Anna Kapustina

Photo: Pexels, Elevate

restaurant you walk into he says, with the country’s biggest brewers – AB InBev, Heineken and Duvel Moortgat – as well as many smaller ones now producing non-alcoholic beer.

Why the growth in popularity?

Simply put, alcohol-free beer has become more popular because it tastes better now than it did in the past. “Non-alcoholic beer was a non-fermented beer, so they stopped the process before fermentation, and it wasn’t at all like real beer,” says Lhoest. The next stage in the evolution of alcohol-free was brewing the ale in the traditional way and then extracting the alcohol afterwards, he explains. This results in a drink closer in taste to its alcoholic counterpart, but in removing the alcohol you also lose some of the flavour.

However, the real breakthrough for the non-alcoholic beer and low alcoholic beer (NABLAB) market came with the discovery of a new type of yeast that has, in the last four or five years, transformed the industry. “Thanks to this new yeast, we have all the fermentation process but with only 0.3 – 0.5% alcohol,” says Lhoest. “We can brew all styles and keep the flavour. It’s the same process as a beer of 8%, but it’s only 0.5%.”

While he sees this as the main reason for the growth in NABLAB sales, other societal reasons also have an impact.

As in other countries, drink driving has become less socially acceptable, and the BOB campaign, with its focus on designated drivers, has a massive public awareness in Belgium. Alcohol-free beer gives drivers an extra choice, in addition to mocktails and soft drinks.

Finally, and in common with the UK, for example, not drinking alcohol carries a certain stigma; celebrating and socialising with alcohol is traditional, so not doing so is still seen as strange and friends want to know the reason why. The ev-

er-widening range of alcohol-free beer gives people who don’t want to drink another socially-acceptable option.

Where next for alcohol-free in Belgium?

Recognising the importance of brewing and beer to the history and heritage of the country, in 2016, UNESCO added Belgian beer to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

At the time, Sven Gatz, former managing director of the Federation of Belgian Brewers and current Minister of Finance, Budget, Civil Servants, Statistics, Multilingualism and Education, likened the accolade to winning the World Cup. Such is the affection and pride of Belgians for their beer.

The industry employs more than 50,000 people and contributes over four billion euros to the Belgian economy, with more than 1,600 beers produced by 430 breweries, says the Federation of Belgian Brewers.

Yet beer consumption is falling – by almost 30% between 2002 and 2022, according to the federation.

Yet demand for non-alcoholic beer continues to grow across the continent.

Kevin Lhoest, zythologist and founder of Hoptimalt Beer Academy in Namur.

Beer tasting at Brasserie Peak in Waimes.

Photo: Visit Wallonia

Photo: Pexels, Elevate

Brussels-based The Brewers of Europe states that non-alcoholic beer now represents over 5% of the European beer market.

This is borne out in conversations Lhoest has had with industry colleagues who talk about double-digit growth per year, he says. Smaller companies, too, are embracing alcohol-free. “I work with a lot of microbreweries, and maybe 50% are in R&D to have a non-alcoholic beer, because it’s really important,” he says.

“Whereas at the beginning the focus was on lager, now, thanks to new yeasts, we’re starting to see different styles,” he adds. “So you can have a Belgian light blonde, an IPA, a fruity beer or brown ale without alcohol. It’s really more complex now, and it’s great for opening the minds of consumers.”

For information on Hoptimalt’s courses and brewery tours, visit the website at www.hoptimalt.be

Visit to Brasserie de la Lesse in Rochefort.

Photo: Visit Wallonia, David Samyn

Brasserie Curtius in Liège.

Photo: Visit Wallonia, Isabelle Harsin

Photo: Pexels, Eva Bronzini

Amsterdam’s Hermitage Museum reborn as H’ART

Evolving with our turbulent times, what was formerly the largest satellite of the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, has found new life, as well as new international partnerships, as Amsterdam’s H’ART museum. Looking beyond borders, the reborn venue will bring world-renowned art collections spanning continents and oceans to the Dutch capital.

If the walls of Amsterdam’s new H’ART museum could talk, they might whisper tales about Peter the Great when he visited the Netherlands during his so-called Grand Embassy trip to Western Europe at the tail end of the 17th century. The tsar was sufficiently impressed by what he observed in Amsterdam and Zaandam during his “gap year”. He asked the Dutch for help when he embarked

on building his capital on waterlogged Russian ground. Once called Petrograd and for years known as Leningrad, the city he founded bears its original Dutch name today.

Peter the Great’s obsession with collecting renowned art was on ample display when H’ART was Amsterdam’s Hermitage museum. Opened by Dutch Queen

Beatrix and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in 2009, it was the largest satellite of the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg until February 2022, when Russia cut ties with St. Petersburg after the invasion of Ukraine. Some of Peter the Great’s prized souvenirs – including Rembrandts – were showcased in a 2013 Hermitage Amsterdam exhibit dedicated to the first tsar to travel outside the

TEXT: MELISSA ADAMS

Amsterdam’s Hermitage museum reborn as H’ART. Photo: Roy Beusker

borders of his immense kingdom, aiming to modernise Russia.

Ghosts of the past

Long known as the Amstelhof, the monumental building that now houses H’ART was built on the eastern banks of the Amstel River, near the Magere Brug, in 1683. At 102 metres, it boasted the widest facade in Amsterdam at the time. Until 2007, the symmetric, classical-style structure served as a retirement home for the elderly. Despite numerous renovations over more than three centuries, administrators deemed it inadequate to meet residents’ needs in the 1990s. They offered the historic edifice to the city of Amsterdam, which leased it to what became the Hermitage museum.

A €40 million renovation restored some areas and reconfigured others to accommodate the museum’s needs. A street-level doorway facing the Amstel that was once the tradesman’s entrance, where deliveries were received, now serves as one of two main entrances. Just beyond it, a large inner courtyard –where laundry was once left to dry while residents gardened and took care of chickens – provides ample space for museum visitors to relax outdoors, when the weather cooperates.

Hermitage reincarnated as H’ART

As one ripple in the global tsunami created by geo-political conflict, Amsterdam’s

Hermitage severed bonds with the State Hermitage in St. Petersburg in March 2022, a week after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In the same month, the Amsterdam Museum found a temporary home at the venue during the largescale renovation of its monumental Civil Orphanage.

On 1 September 2023, Hermitage Amsterdam will be reborn as H’ART. The new moniker is not an acronym, but suggests

the new museum’s mission: to look beyond borders in opening windows to the world through the uniting force of art. To bring world-renowned collections to Amsterdam, the newest incarnation of the venue is collaborating with a trio of partners: London’s British Museum, one of the world’s oldest repositories of global treasures; Centre Pompidou in Paris, known for its controversial architecture and, more significantly, one of Europe’s foremost collections of modern and contemporary art;

Hermitage interior.

Photo: Melissa Adams

H’ART visitors can wine and dine at an indoor restaurant.

Photo: Jørgen Koopmanschap

Hermitage shop.

Photo: Melissa Adams

and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the leading museum for American fine and decorative arts.

Currently on display is Clubbing, a video installation by Martine Gutierrez from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, as well as a work by Patricia Kaersenhout from the ABN AMRO Collection recognizing the Dutch Slavery Memorial Year (July 2023–July 2024).

H’ART’s first major collaboration with one of its new partners will be a Kandinsky exhibition with the Centre Pompidou in mid-2024. Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary will be celebrated with a major exhibit in partnership with The Leiden Collection in 2025 – the first time all 17 Rembrandts in this collection will be on display in a single exhibit. The British Museum’s Feminine Power is slated for 2026. H’ART’s complete programme for the next few years will be announced in late 2023.

Visiting H’ART

Museum visitors can enjoy lunch, sweets, coffee and wine at HART’s on-site café. When the sun shines, the restaurant is replaced by a kiosk in the expansive outdoor courtyard, where guests can sip and dine on sprawling lawns shaded by mature chestnut trees. A museum shop proffers a rotating collection of jewellery, interior accessories, literature, art and books.

Until 2025, the Amsterdam Museum will present new exhibitions in a dedicated wing at H’ART. Spotlighting both traditional and opposing views of past events, it will offer a wide range of perspectives about Dutch history. Also in the building is the Museum of the Mind | Outsider Art museum, boasting one of the Netherlands’ largest international collections of art produced by art world – and often social – “outsiders”. With unpolished, sometimes controversial pieces, exhibits will explore life’s intertwined fabric, just as the Russian tsar did centuries ago when he worked incognito as a ship carpenter in Amsterdam.

On the banks of the Amstel, H’ART brings international art to Amsterdam. Photo: Luuk Kramer

Richard Long Walks into the Rijksmuseum Gardens

When Richard Long repeatedly walked a straight path in tall grass until it formed a visible line, he unwittingly took the first steps of a contemporary art career that now spans more than a halfcentury. The 10th edition of the Rijksmuseum Gardens’ free outdoor sculpture series celebrates the contemporary British artist who rose to prominence with A Line Made by Walking.

According to an ancient Chinese proverb, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Whether that Taoist wisdom inspired Richard Long to take the first of many steps that would eventually form a straight line in tall grass is unknown. What’s certain is this: it was

the initial move of a signature piece that launched him into artistic prominence in the 1960s.

Born in Bristol, England in 1945, Long was a 22-year-old student at London’s Saint Martin’s School of Art when he boarded

a train at Waterloo Station heading southeast to his home in Bristol. On that June day in 1967, he disembarked in Wiltshire, about 30 kilometres into his 171-kilometre trip. Here, he found the featureless field that would become the backdrop for A Line Made by Walking, his seminal work.

TEXT: MELISSA ADAMS

Maas Riverstones Circle.

Photo: Melissa Adams

In the grass, Long walked back and forth again and again in a straight path. When sunlight finally revealed a line in the flattened turf, he took an angled black and white photo of his steps’ impact. With no corporeal presence, the image reflects a sense of human action on the environment. The act of walking becomes an art form, suggesting art can be created by the foot, as well as the hand. Whether the performance or its documentation is the actual work is up for debate. Reflecting on his first piece themed around transient nature, Long notes, “it was also my own path – going nowhere.”

Walking to connect

But the young art student was wrong. His fascination with walking as a means of connecting with the earth and leaving a trace of his journey behind foretold widespread interest in performative art. By challenging traditional notions through works created directly in and with nature, Long became a key figure in the land art movement of the 1960s. Rejecting museums and galleries as the only legitimate settings for paintings and sculptures, exponents protested the “ruthless commercialization” that had seeped into the art world.

Long’s discovery of a visual language to express his concerns about impermanence also made him a darling of conceptual art. With landscape installations that capture his physical presence through

Life Line, Rijksmuseum.

Photo: Jannes Linders

Richard Long catalogue.

a trail of meditative acts, he allows the concepts behind his works to supersede traditional aesthetic concerns. With striking simplicity, his minimalistic art reflects connections he establishes with nature and invites contemplation about humanity’s relationship with the earth.

Long’s first solo exhibition was at the celebrated Konrad Fischer Galerie in Düsseldorf, Germany in 1968. In 1989, he won the prestigious Turner Prize. His work has been showcased in major museums around the world, including the Stedelijk, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Van Abbemuseum, Rijksmuseum Twenthe, Kröller-Müller Museum, and Museum De Pont in the Netherlands.

Now considered one of the world’s foremost contemporary artists, Long is known for his introspective approach to art themed around human engagement with nature. Beyond the art world, his

work has inspired conversations about environmentalism and sustainability. With subtle interventions in often inhospitable deserts, mountains and forests, he bridges the gap between art and the natural world, reminding us of the earth’s fragile beauty. Through walking, Long has defined time and space in remote enclaves in Peru, Bolivia, Nepal and California’s Death Valley.

Six new works

Richard Long in the Rijksmuseum Gardens runs through October 29. Of the eight works in the exhibit, six are new. Of these, four “grassworks” return to the dawn of Long’s career, using natural materials from the landscape to fashion geometric forms and symbols from ancient civilisations. Created by mowing some sections of grass while allowing others to grow, the new sculptures form a crescent moon, a cross, an undulating plane and a zigzagging band. As the season pro-

gresses, they’ll be absorbed into their surroundings and eventually disappear, leaving only a museum catalogue as tangible evidence of their existence.

In addition to the works in grass, Long created two sculptures in the gardens from boulders carried by the Maas River to its North Sea estuary near Rotterdam. Two large-scale stoneworks inside the Rijksmuseum complete the exhibition. In the Great Hall, red Indian stones meander across the floor mosaic designed by museum architect Pierre Cuypers in River of Stones 2023, echoing a 2021 work Long created in Jaipur, India. On an atrium floor, Black White Blue Purple Circle is clearly visible from the covered passageway that crosses through the museum.

The Rijksmuseum, partnering with the Centre Pompidou in Paris, has staged annual outdoor sculpture exhibitions

Black White Blue Purple Circle.

Photo: Melissa Adams

celebrating modern and contemporary artists since 2013. With this anniversary edition, Richard Long joins nine other luminaries featured previously: Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Joan Miró, Giuseppe Penone, Jean Dubuffet, Eduardo Chillida, Louise Bourgeois, Ellsworth Kelly and Barbara Hepworth.

In such an illustrious company, Long’s work is distinctive for its horizontal, ground-level orientation. Unlike traditional vertical sculptures set on pedestals, his are literally down-to-earth. Personally installed, then left to the elements, Long’s ephemeral sculptures will be reclaimed by nature after his journey to the Rijksmuseum ends. They will endure in Richard Long in the Rijksmuseum, available in English and Dutch, prepared in collaboration with the artist.

Time After Time Sign.

Photo: Melissa Adams

Time After Time.

Photo: Melissa Adams

STATES OF ART

Art for all the senses

The experience of art has traditionally been dominated by one sense – sight. But why should it be this way? Art is all about the human experience, and since we’ve got five senses, it seems a waste not to make use of them.

The Van Abbe Museum in Eindhoven has decided to right this wrong with an exhibition that is all about smelling, touching, hearing and seeing. Delinking and Relinking invites you to experience art differently.

Through utilising other senses, the exhibition’s mission is to introduce broader perspectives into the museum and experience works from their collection afresh. Working with experts in physical accessibility and consulting with queer and identity groups, they have introduced 25 multi-sensory tools to enhance the

WINE OF THE MONTH

visitor experience. These include Braille texts, scent interpretations and tactile drawings designed to enrich the visitor experience for everyone, as well as ensure the exhibition is accessible for wheelchair users and visually or hearing impaired visitors.

There are over 120 works of art in this bumper show, spread over five floors of the vast Van Abbe and spanning over 100 years. The works are presented in chronological order and highlight the contemporary concerns of the artists at the time. As you move closer to today, you notice the increased social commitments of the artists. There is an increased interest in the climate, ethnic politics, race and gender inequality.

These are experiences, emotions and feelings that affect all of us and ought to be presented in an accessible way. In Delinking and Relinking,

Wijnkasteel Vandeurzen

Pure Red Pinot Noir

Most Belgian wines are white or sparkling, yet the reds, too, are increasingly winning awards. Pinot Noir is a traditional favourite, showing great potential in the better vintages and in the hands of talented winemakers.

In Linden, near Leuven, a stylish neoclassicist ‘white castle’ rises amidst vast landscaped gardens. On the south-facing slopes around the historical property, its current owners, the entrepreneurial Vandeurzen family, decided to plant a vineyard. Besides the classic cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, they also opted for some surprising varieties: Grüner Veltliner, Albariño and Tempranillo. With Daniël Medarts of the Kitsberg winery as their winemaker, they produced the first bottles in 2017.

Then came the stellar vintage of 2018. Not only did it deliver generous wines, but in volume as well as in quality, 2018 also herald-

ed the family’s ambitious hospitality project, which includes a gastronomic restaurant, a wine bistro and an event space.

The warm, dry and sunny summer of 2018 certainly translated into this wine. Ripe red cherries, strawberries and blackberries burst from the glass, supported by oak spices, toasted bread, autumn leaves and leather. With acidity not overly high and the tannins still showing some grip, this ‘Pure Red’ Pinot Noir makes an attractive and versatile food partner for your late-summer barbecues!

Vintage 2018. Ageing recommendation: drink now or in the next two years. Alcohol content: 14.5% alcohol. Serving temperature: 16°C.

Available in their webshop, on-site bistro and restaurant, or from specialist wine shops.

the Van Abbe Museum is pioneering a path to truly make art for everyone. Delinking and Relinking runs until 1 July 2025.

Kristel Balcaen is a Belgian wine writer, educator and consultant. She is a SommelierConseil, holds the WSET level 4 Diploma, and was named Belgium’s Champagne Ambassador and Wine Lady of the Year in 2018. Her food and wine book, Wijnboek voor Foodies, is coming out later this month.

TEXT & PHOTO: KRISTEL BALCAEN

Matt Antoniak is a visual artist and writer living and working in Newcastle, UK. He works mainly in painting and drawing and is a founding member of the art collective M I L K.

TEXT: MATT ANTONIAK | PHOTO: PETER COX AND THE VAN ABBEMUSEUM

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