Ostend and Antwerp honor Ensor with an ambitious programme

In Ostend, where the pioneer of modern art spent almost his entire life, everything will be devoted to the artist until August, after which it will be Antwerp’s turn.

Ostend kicks off the Ensor year with a surprising exhibition in Mu.ZEE on still lifes – a lesser-known aspect of Ensor’s work. Ostend approaches the Ensor year as a 9-month city festival that will touch every Ostend resident. Bart Tommelein, mayor of the city of Ostend: “The story of Ensor is inextricably linked to Ostend, the place where he lived all his life – except for three years of study in Brussels – and where he is eventually buried. As a city, Ostend is taking the lead for a year-long city festival with, in addition to exhibitions, an experience throughout the city. We work together with the broad cultural field, local entrepreneurs and especially the people of Ostend themselves – who, as you know, continue to cherish their creative fellow citizens.”

Shaving high peaks internationally

The Flemish government provides 4.5 million euros and wants to reach international heights with the commemorative year. She expects about 800,000 visitors. Prime Minister and Minister for Culture Jan Jambon: “The Flemish support is considerable, but necessary to realize the international ambitions. With ten exhibition projects, a city festival in Ostend, a scientific conference and an ambitious promotional campaign at home and abroad, we hope We aim to receive no fewer than 800,000 visitors from home and abroad. Our heritage and the craftsmanship of our masters remain calling cards for Flanders of the past and of tomorrow.”