The Artists’ Parliament: A new space for public art in the European Parliament

The Artists’ Parliament is a joint initiative of the Brussels Commissioner for Europe and International Organisations and the European Parliament. We are working together to create a new space for public art at the heart of European democracy, bringing the vibrant diversity of European contemporary art to Brussels. This series of open-air exhibitions will showcase artists from the country holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The installations will intrigue and entertain the thousands of workers, residents and visitors who cross the bustling European Quarter of Brussels every day.

BELGIUM TAKES THE LEAD FOR THE FIRST EDITION OF THE ARTISTS’ PARLIAMENT

On 10 January, we will unveil the thought-provoking work which represents Belgium’s excellent contemporary art scene. L’Aire d’un Souffle will then remain in place for 5 months, freely accessible 24 hours a day on the Esplanade Solidarność. Renowned Belgian artists Ann Veronica Janssens and Michel François were selected to produce a piece for this first edition. The duo represented Belgium at the Venice Biennale in 1999, and now exhibit their work all over the world.

The formal inauguration is an invitation-only event, but a second public inauguration will be held at 15.00 on Wednesday 10 January 2024. There is no need to register for this open event. You can just join us on the Esplanade Solidarność for some brief presentations, conversations with the artists, and of course the chance to see the new sculpture with your own eyes!

Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for further open-air exhibitions to celebrate the upcoming Presidencies of Hungary, Poland and Denmark.

Press Contact & Information: Bryn Watkins

Communications and Project Manager

bwatkins@commissioner.brussels
+32 (0)489 88 80 03