Antwerp’s KMSKA is hosting a groundbreaking exhibition featuring the work of Marthe Donas alongside her partner, Ukrainian sculptor Alexander Archipenko, highlighting their contributions to early modernism through 11 January, reports 24brussels.
This exhibition marks the first direct comparison between Donas’ expressive art and Archipenko’s sculptures, showcasing their role in the international avant-garde. Their partnership, alongside contemporaries like Mondrian and Modigliani, reveals a vibrant and often overlooked narrative of modernism that embraces gender diversity. Donas’ art is celebrated for its dynamic use of color and innovative forms.
Donas, whose artistic journey began after a life-altering accident in 1912, defied social norms and gender biases of her time, establishing herself as a pivotal figure in modern art. She adopted the pseudonym Tour Donas while working in Dublin and later in Paris, where her cubist and abstract pieces gained international acclaim. This exhibition places her story and artistry at the forefront of the discourse surrounding early modernism.
In 1917, Donas met Archipenko, with whom she established a deep artistic and personal connection. This partnership allowed her to explore the interplay of space and form, enriching the narrative of Archipenko’s revolutionary sculptures. Together, they became integral members of the revitalized La Section d’Or, signifying women’s substantial contributions to the movement alongside other artists like Goncharova and Vassilieff.
Grand Finale, until 19 October, Opera Ballet Vlaanderen, Antwerp and Ghent
Opera Ballet Vlaanderen is reviving Hofesh Shechter’s acclaimed work, Grand Finale, described as “choreographic fireworks.” This multifaceted performance blends dance, theater, and concert elements, offering a poignant reflection on today’s chaotic world. Shechter’s unique style—rooted in Israeli folk dance—remains a defining feature of his choreography.
Shechter, who has been vocal about the ongoing conflict in Gaza, views art as a response to despair, maintaining that dancing and music foster a better world. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists underscores the urgency behind his works, which encapsulate both human struggles and explosive creativity.
GIRLS. On Boredom, Rebellion and Being In-Between, until 1 February, MoMu, Antwerp
The MoMu Fashion Museum is exploring the complexities of girlhood in its latest exhibition, GIRLS. This multifaceted project seeks to reclaim representations of girlhood and challenge traditional portrayals in visual culture and fashion. Navigating the rich tapestry of emotions and experiences that define girlhood, the exhibition addresses issues of inequality and discrimination faced by many teenagers today.
Through the engagement of artists, designers, and filmmakers, GIRLS fosters a discourse that questions societal norms and champions inclusivity, striving to give voice to often marginalized experiences. The exhibition is an essential space for dialogue about representation in the arts.
Ghent Art Week, 29 September until 5 October
Ghent Art Week has turned the city into a hub for contemporary art, showcasing over 30 artists and numerous exhibitions across multiple venues. This festival-style event, designed for accessibility, promotes a dialogue about creativity and experimentation. With free public access to all exhibitions, it invites both locals and visitors to engage with the city’s artistic landscape.
The week features solo and group shows, video installations, and late-night screenings, allowing for a vibrant exploration of art in diverse settings, reaffirming Ghent’s reputation as a dynamic cultural centre.
Michael Beutler, until 22 February, Z33, Hasselt
German artist Michael Beutler’s first major solo exhibition in Belgium transforms Z33’s Wing 19 into a lively creative atelier. The exhibition showcases Beutler’s monumental installations, which use recyclable materials and handcrafted techniques, highlighting his innovative artistic process.
With a focus on the relationship between architecture and art, Beutler’s works challenge traditional forms and engage the viewer in a conversation about creativity. His exhibition is an exploration of how ideas evolve and merge in the pursuit of artistic expression.
(MOH)
#FlandersNewsService | Image from Grand Finale © MACIEK RUKASZ
