Yves Malfliet’s playful ceramics ‘invade’ gothic Erasmus House in Anderlecht

The theatrical and unconventional work of Flemish ceramic artist Yves Malfliet is showcased at the Erasmus House in Anderlecht.

Titled Ole Desire!, the exhibition runs until 20 September and features a series of recent works, some created specifically for the occasion and never previously shown. The show places Malfliet’s unique ceramic sculptures in contrast with the historic rooms and collection of the museum, dedicated to the Dutch Renaissance scholar Desiderius Erasmus.

Renowned for its focus on religious history and Renaissance literature, the Erasmus House regularly invites contemporary artists to reimagine its collections and space. Malfliet’s playful and original pieces offers a striking contrast to the museum’s historical atmosphere.

“It’s the second time that I put my works together in a classic museum. And to be honest, it’s something that I like to do,” Malfliet told the Bulletin. “I like to try to find the contrast, but also create harmony.” His sculptures are displayed throughout the building, interacting with paintings, furniture and the architecture of the historic residence.

Born in Hamme, Flanders, in 1962, Malfliet has built a reputation as an “enfant terrible” of modern ceramics. His works combine humor and seriousness, often transforming traditional porcelain figurines and decorative objects into surreal, meaningful pieces.

“I use a lot of porcelain,” he said. “I grew up in a furniture shop. I’d always go with my father to deliver the furniture. Most Flemish interiors have porcelain figurines, and that reflects in my work.”

Malfliet frequently incorporates second hand ceramic objects into new sculptures, creating unexpected combinations that challenge traditional ideas of ceramics. “I always try to explore new things. When they say you have to fire this glaze at 1020 degrees, it’s my character to fire it at 1120,” he said. “I’m always on an adventure.”

When the artist began his career, ceramics were often regarded as a craft rather than a fine art. Over the years, however, perspectives have changed, and ceramic art has gained wider recognition in galleries and museums globally. “It’s not the technique that is the most important,” he explained. “It’s the narrative, the history, the idea that it gives to you or to the spectator.”

His works are now included in collections worldwide and have earned several awards, including recognition at major ceramic events such as the Italian Faenza Prize in 2023.

This latest exhibition continues a long tradition of contemporary art projects at the Erasmus House. Since 2000, the museum’s garden and interior have hosted projects linking modern artists with the humanist ideas associated with Erasmus.

With Ole Desire!, visitors are invited to see both the historical museum and Malfliet’s modern ceramics from a unique perspective, where Renaissance philosophy meets playful, yet absurd reflections on life, taking a glimpse into Yves Malfiet’s bright mind.

The museum is located in one of the oldest houses in Brussels, dating from 1460 to 1515, and includes a beguinage. As the smallest of its kind in Belgium, it once contained eight beguines for single women or widows. The heritage site has also undergone extensive restoration and is open to the public.

Ole Desire!
Until 20 September
Erasmus House
Rue de Formanoir 31
Anderlecht

Photos: (main image) ZitaSwoon 2025 ©Yves Malfliet ©Sylvain Deleu; exhibition interior ©Emil Verhulst; exhibition interior ©Emil Verhulst; Ole Desire ©Musees Maison d'Erasme Beguinage; ceramic detail ©Yves Malfliet ©Sylvain Deleu