What if we dust off an old master to inspire us to create fresh, contemporary graphic work? And that around a burning topical theme: democracy?
“Everything is political”
Starting from this provocative statement, and drawing inspiration from the artistic work and life of woodcut artist Frans Masereel, Masereelfonds and its partners are organising an exhibition on the theme of democracy. Participants are invited to use these words and images as a starting point for creating graphic work, exploring the complexities and diverse interpretations of democracy—or the lack thereof.
Democracy
How do contemporary artists experience, view, and portray democracy? What does democracy mean today? Is there a gap between words and actions? Is democracy universally upheld? Can democracy, at its core, truly be democratic? Has democracy flourished as an ideology, or has it faded into nothing more than a shadow of its original concept?
Kunstacademies
How do contemporary artists experience, view, and portray democracy? What does democracy mean today? Is there a gap between words and actions? Is democracy universally upheld? Can democracy, at its core, truly be democratic? Has democracy flourished as an ideology, or has it faded into nothing more than a shadow of its original concept?
Exhibition
The opening exhibition will take place in Antwerp between May 15 and June 15, 2025. From all submitted works, a jury will select a number of pieces for this first exhibition. Starting in September 2025, the exhibition will continue its tour through Flanders and Brussels. Each location will make its own selection from the submitted works, making every exhibition unique. The works that are not physically displayed will be presented digitally at the exhibition. All works will also be showcased online and through social media.
Publication
A professionally designed catalogue featuring a selection of the submitted works will be published. Photographer Erik Eggermont will document the creative process in the artists' studios. Promotion will be handled by Masereelfonds, Kunstwerkt, and the University of Antwerp.
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Frans Masereel: more relevant than ever!
We believe the artistic and intellectual legacy of Belgian artist Frans Masereel is strikingly relevant today.
