New Exhibition by Stephan Vanfleteren at the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
The Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK) unveils a new exhibition by renowned photographer Stephan Vanfleteren, titled Transcripts of a Sea, which runs from 20 September to 4 January. This marks Vanfleteren’s first exploration of his deep fascination with the sea, an interest he has cultivated both artistically and physically over the past five years., reports 24brussels.
Vanfleteren, known for his striking black-and-white portrait and documentary photography, shifts his focus to the sea in this new series. The exhibition presents images reflecting the sea’s various moods, from serene calm to tumultuous storms, pushing beyond traditional seascapes to capture the sea’s “unpredictable wonders.”
Organizers describe Vanfleteren’s work as “a dangerous obsession and fluid desire,” showcasing the elusive nature of the sea in all its states. His photographs depict tranquil waters, violent waves, and chaotic surfaces reminiscent of a washing machine gone rogue, highlighting a compelling engagement with the subject.
An Ongoing Fascination with the Sea
The exhibition transcends mere displays of sea imagery, creating a dialogue with notable artists across history who shared similar fascinations with the sea. This includes figures such as Gustave Courbet, James Ensor, and Marlene Dumas. The commonality lies not just in subject matter but in the artists’ personal interpretations of the sea.
According to MSK, this results in “a visually intense story about the allure of water and the interplay between photography and painting.” Visitors can expect to see Vanfleteren’s work alongside marine art spanning five centuries, establishing a powerful dialogue across time and artistic mediums.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project directly from the artist, guided tours featuring Vanfleteren will be available.
