The 6th edition of the Triennale of contemporary art Beaufort 2018, revolving around a thematic of monuments and ecology, will take place until 30 September 2018.
More than an artistic project, Beaufort has become a tradition aiming to support and enhance the image of the Belgian coast. This year, Beaufort 2018 goes further with a thematic on the place monuments have in the modern Belgium society, a reminder of the tragic colonial past, and on ecology with the constant rise of sea level.
“Our fragility vis-a-vis nature is most noticeable on the coast. The artists of Beaufort 2018 express the change of relationship between man and nature and the works also embody a reflection on the limits of material immortalisation by the construction of monuments. It is with this in mind that the 2018 Beaufort Triennale is a centuries-old tribute to the omnipotence of the sea,” Beaufort 2018 curator Heidi Ballet explains.
For six months, 19 artworks from 18 artists are presented in nine coastal municipalities. The Egyptian, Danish, French, Belgium, American, Chinese, British, Estonian, German and Korean artists, all come from countries bordered by the sea.
Getting around
What contributes to Beaufort’s success is its accessibility. Most of the works of art are presented in public spaces and are therefore free 24/7, except for few that are indoors. From De Panne to Knokke-Heist, people can marvel at these artworks that require some reflection at first glance. Whether travelling by foot, bicycle, car or by tram, a detailed map provides more information about the artworks and their locations, as well as indicating the tram or train stop, the nearest junction points and cycle paths to help visitors plan their own trips.
15 years after the first edition, Beaufort has been rethought with the goal of long-term integration. These works of art will not be forgotten after September 2018, they will be bought by communes or art connoisseurs, will remain at their locations or be moved, and become part of the Sculpture park Beaufort.
“The event helped develop a participatory model that generated dynamism and enthusiasm among many partners,” the organisers said. Only four hours by car from Luxembourg City, the Belgian coast offers not only the chance to enjoy art--the food is also particularly delicious. Tasting sessions of exotic foods take place in a temporary pavilion on the beach of Zeebrugge-Bad. Once a month until September 2018, a chef cooks for a small exclusive group of 20 people who will try unique dishes such as the Chinese mitten crab. Staying on the theme of food, nine seaside chefs have drawn inspiration from the artworks in their city or town, by adding subtle references to their dishes.
Beach performance
On 25, 27 and 29 July 2018, Theater aan Zee will present a performance of “Panic Fear Of Standing Still”, by Kasper Vandenberghe. On the beach at Ostend, the artist will create a new artwork over a period of five hours. The audience will then be invited to take part in a meditative walk on 29 July.
More than a contemporary art project, Beaufort 2018 is, above all, an opportunity to (re)discover the Belgium coast in a new light, through the artists’ perspective. It is also a meaningful family moment where young and old witness the beauty of contemporary art highlighted by nature.