Saint-Gilles showcases its creativity in the biennial Parcours d’Artistes

Artists across Saint-Gilles are opening their studios and exhibition spaces once again this weekend as part of the Parcours d’Artistes, a biennial event showcasing the Brussels municipality’s rich creative scene.

The 38th edition of the art trail runs until 19 April with over 300 workshops, performances and exhibitions taking place throughout the neighbourhood.

First launched in 1988, the initiative was designed to highlight the area’s strong artistic presence and connect residents directly with creators. Over the years, it has grown into a key community cultural event.

Visitors are invited to explore artists’ studios, often located in private or unusual spaces such as artists' homes, offering a rare insight into creative processes. The event also aims to encourage exchange between artists and the public, while promoting emerging talent and unknown artists.

This year’s theme, “I.A., Intelligence Artistique”, explores the relationship between human creativity and technology. Organisers say the programme invites reflection on “the zones of friction between the human and the machine” and the role of artists in navigating these changes.

Alongside open studios, the programme includes performances, workshops and a nocturne event, with venues such as the Maison du Peuple and Maison Pelgrims hosting exhibitions and activities. The former stages the show Heureux les yeux qui n’ont pas besoin d’illusion pour voir que le spectacle est grand, featuring installations in public spaces and a performance by Claude Cattelain (pictured) that links the two venues.

The art trail is also designed to reflect the identity of Saint-Gilles as a “terre d’artistes” or “land of artists”, known for its dense network of creatives working across multiple disciplines including visual arts, performance, photography and design.

Among the exhibitions linked to this year’s programme is Les Formes Vides, a video installation by Sebastien Lacomblez presented at the Horta Museum. It forms part of the wider cultural agenda surrounding the event that runs until 17 May. Consequently, the museum dedicated to the pioneering Art Nouveau architect is free to enter during the opening hours of the trail.

By opening up studios and encouraging dialogue, organisers hope the event will continue to strengthen the connection between artists and the local community, while offering visitors a unique way to experience Brussels’ contemporary art scene.

The Parcours d’Artistes begins at 18.00 when artists and gallery owners start opening their doors, and lasts until 23.00 at night, with all locations free of charge.

Photos: (main image) ©Jonathan Petit; Portait A la Pie Claude Cattelain; Les Formes Vides at Horta Museum ©Sebastien Lacomblez