Programme

Exhibition / workshops

Art nouveau in Japan, a return to the source of inspiration

© Halles Saint-Géry

Art Nouveau's style and ideology were developed in response to the need for a new approach to art and design at the end of the 19th century Japanese art (and Japonisme), which was a major source of inspiration for the art and design world of the time, formed the backbone of this trend. However, the popularity and global development of the movement in turn provided a new impetus to its country of origin. In Japan, Art Nouveau encouraged artists to transcend art and design genres, and to re-evaluate traditional crafts and design, activities that can be said to be the starting point for modern Japanese craft design.

This exhibition traces the influence and development of Art Nouveau in Japan. It will feature graphic works by artists considered central figures in the artistic movement in Japan, as well as kimonos, a medium in which Art Nouveau played an important role.

This exhibition will be held at two venues: part 1 (chapters 1, 2 and 3) in the Halles Saint-Géry/Sint-Gorikshallen, and part 2 (chapter 4) at the Japan Information and Cultural Centre (JICC) of the Embassy of Japan in Brussels (Rue Van Maerlant / Van Maerlantstraat 1, BE-1000 Brussels – Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

A number of workshops, open to everyone, will be organised around this exhibition:

  • Kamishibai: Discover Momotaro (a well-known Japanese folk tale) and the art of Kamishibai ("paper theatre") entirely produced and performed by L'Arbre à Plumes.
  • Origami workshop: Looking for a new way to train your brain? Channel your inner artist and discover the art of Japanese paper folding for all ages!
  • Calligraphy workshop: Ever wanted to try your hand at Japanese calligraphy? Join us for our water-based calligraphy workshop (no need to worry about your clothes getting stained!).
  • Kinpaku workshop: Kinpaku, or gold leaf, is mainly produced in the Japanese city of Kanazawa, and is frequently used in lacquerware. This is a unique opportunity to try gold-leaf decoration for yourself and take your creation home with you!

Saturday (French, Dutch, English, Japanese)

  • 11:00 to 12:00: Kamishibai (paper theatre) performance with L'Arbre à Plumes
  • 10:30 to 13:00: Origami workshop with Ben Artside
  • From 15:00 – all day : Kinpaku (gold-leaf transfer) workshop and water calligraphy workshop
  • 16:00 to 17:00: Tsumami-zaiku (Japanese craft) workshop with C'ISM
  • 17:30 to 19:00: Origami workshop with Ben Artside
  • 17:30 to 19:00: Tsumami-zaiku (Japanese craft) workshop with C'ISM

Sunday (French, Dutch, English, Japanese)

  • 10:30 to 13:30: Origami workshop with Michael David
  • From 15:00 – all day: Kinpaku (gold-leaf transfer) and water calligraphy workshop
  • 15:00 to 16:00: Kamishibai (paper theatre) performance with L'Arbre à Plumes
  • 16:00 to 17:00: Tsumami-zaiku (Japanese craft) workshop with C'ISM
  • 17:30 to 19:00: Origami workshop with Michael David
  • 17:30 to 19:00: Tsumami-zaiku (Japanese craft) with C'ISM

In cooperation with the Embassy of Japan and Halles Saint-Géry / Sint-Gorikshallen.

More details: https://www.facebook.com/JapanEmbassyBelgium/

Practical information

Sat. & Sun. 10:00 to 19:00

Halles Saint-Géry/Sint Gorikshallen, Place Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriksplein 1 – Brussels

Advance booking required for the performance and workshops (up to 8 and 15 participants).

Accessible with assistance

Accessible with assistance