A kind invitation from AW Gallery
Some exhibitions ask visitors to look at art on a wall. This November at AW Gallery (initiated by Danish fashion designer Abelone Wilhemsen) in Antwerp, the invitation feels broader: to step into a carefully composed world where fashion, furniture, objects, photography and craft speak to one another. The exhibition’s strength lies in a shared language across disciplines.
Visual artist Birgit Stulens presents chosen pieces from various series. These artworks are showcased alongside a sustainable fashion collection by designer Abelone Wilhemsen, curated vintage furniture and items from CABINET39, and contributions from local artisans.
The photographer's themes
Natura Naturata, The Temple of Pan
Inspired by Spinoza's philosophy, this series emphasize humanity's connection to nature, portraying the forest as a temple and trees as serene columns. It questions whether we have forgotten the solace nature provides and challenges us to preserve these natural temples.
Plato’s Lament
Humanity retreated into a virtual reality, neglecting the natural world. Nature becomes mere shadows, and the visual poem "Plato's Lament" calls for awakening and change.
Velato Svelato - Veiled Unveiled
This work questions the purpose of portraying landscapes when public interest wanes. Using veils as a metaphor, it explores the duality of protection and suppression. The veiled Polaroid, overpainted to obscure the image, contrasts with the honest immediacy of photography, provoking curiosity and questioning the viewer's perception of nature.
A layered exhibition for a slower kind of looking
In the AW Gallery, Abelone Wilhelmsen brings together practices that share a deep concern for the natural world, the ethics of making, and the love for real local craftsmanship and design.
The collaboration's promise lies in how these elements meet. Nothing needs to shout. A photograph can speak to a garment. A chair can alter the rhythm of a room. A crafted jewel can change how a visitor understands value.
This November at AW Gallery, the most rewarding approach will be to look slowly, notice the links, and let the works inspire you.
AW Gallery
Vrijdagmarkt 13
2000 Antwerp
2-29 November
10:00-18:00
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