The Van Buuren Museum & Gardens in Brussels is set to launch a captivating new exhibition in celebration of its 50th anniversary: ‘AROUND ART DECO. Interbellum Sculptures’.
This retrospective exhibition, from 24 April-28 September, promises a deep dive into the dynamic world of sculpture during the inter-war period, showcasing the diversity and richness of works from this era—works that have shaped the course of art history and left an indelible mark on modern aesthetics.
The Art Deco Revolution
The inter-war period was a time of dramatic transformation for the art world, particularly in the realm of sculpture.
The years between World War I and World War II saw an artistic tension between modernity and tradition, with sculptors experimenting in new ways while also harking back to classical roots.
The result was the birth of an aesthetic that combined the avant-garde with elegance and sophistication—Art Deco. Characterized by clean lines, geometric motifs, and stylized forms, Art Deco sculpture was a radical departure from the more academic, classical approaches that had dominated the previous centuries.
This unique period in art history was influenced by earlier movements such as Cubism and Futurism, but also looked to the classical for inspiration, blending the two in a way that had never been seen before.
The AROUND ART DECO exhibition highlights how the innovation of the 1925 Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes and the 1935 Brussels World Exposition propelled the Art Deco style to global prominence, changing the way the world viewed art and design.
A Diverse Selection of Sculptors
The exhibition will feature an impressive array of Belgian and international artists, showcasing the global reach and cross-cultural influence of the Art Deco movement.
Notable Belgian figures such as Philippe Wolfers, Rik Wouters, Oscar Jespers, and Constant Permeke will be displayed alongside celebrated international artists like Ossip Zadkine, Aristide Maillol, and the Martel brothers. Each piece on display offers a different interpretation of the Art Deco style, ranging from the bold geometric shapes of avant-garde sculpture to the softer, more classical forms that emerged during the same period.
One of the most striking aspects of AROUND ART DECO is its emphasis on the contributions of women to this artistic movement, an area that has often been overlooked in traditional art historical narratives. Sculptors like Yvonne Serruys, Jeanne Tercafs, and Rachel Van Dantzig, who were active during the inter-war years, will be presented as integral players in shaping the era’s sculptural language.
By highlighting these lesser-known figures, the exhibition shines a light on the diverse voices that contributed to the Art Deco movement’s unique aesthetic.
A Dialogue Between Art and Architecture
The Van Buuren Museum & Gardens itself is an integral part of the exhibition, offering the perfect setting for this historical journey through time.
Designed in the 1920s, the museum’s Art Deco architecture provides an ideal backdrop for the sculptures on display.
Visitors will be able to experience a harmonious dialogue between the landscape architecture and the sculptural works, creating an immersive atmosphere that will transport them back to the elegance and sophistication of the inter-war period.
The museum’s gardens, in particular, will provide a stunning outdoor space for the exhibition, allowing visitors to experience the sculptures in a natural setting that echoes the designs of the period. This blend of art, architecture, and nature invites guests to step into a time where beauty and design were celebrated in every facet of daily life, from the interiors of luxurious homes to the public spaces of the city.
A Unique Artistic Experience
‘AROUND ART DECO. Interbellum Sculptures’ offers a rare opportunity to explore a transformative period in art history, celebrating not only the iconic names of Art Deco sculpture but also the often overlooked artists whose work continues to resonate today.
Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful design, this exhibition promises an unforgettable experience that blends innovation, tradition, and elegance.
Visitors can look forward to a journey that not only educates but also inspires, as they explore the depth and diversity of sculpture during one of the most exciting and transformative periods of the 20th century.
The exhibition is certain to be a highlight of the cultural calendar in Brussels.
- Photo credit: Van Buuren Museum & Gardens
