Expo Leuven celebrates 25 years of FactorY with anniversary exhibition

Expo Leuven will once again host FactorY this summer. As this year marks its 25th anniversary, the exhibition will focus on the studio itself. The materials, portraits and people will take centre stage. With a focus on ceramics, an image of a large banquet table will emerge. This will be surrounded mainly by paintings and drawings. Sixty artists from the studio will present their work here.

The title of the anniversary year is “La Fête Permanente”, referring to the ideas of artist Robert Filliou. He regarded art as a continuous participation in the network of life, a celebration that never ends. During this anniversary year, the FactorY reflects on the history of the studio and why making art is so important.

By making art together, factorists connect with each other and the world. In this way, they learn new things, grow and discover who they are. The artists can also show how our society works and how it can be improved. Alderman for Culture, Bert Cornillie, agrees: 'For 25 years, the FactorY has been showing how art connects, strengthens and makes people visible. In this exhibition, you will not only see works of art, but also the power of encounter, process and social engagement. That is why this studio is a perfect example of a place where creativity contributes to an inclusive city. The story of De FactorY is the story of LOV2030: a mindset for building radically new connections through art and culture. If we win the title in September, De FactorY will undoubtedly be an important link."

FactorY

De FactorY is a social art studio where art and encounters take centre stage. Participants work at their own pace, with guidance from professional artists. Originating from the OCMW in Ridderstraat, this small studio for people seeking connection grew, through collaboration between WISPER and the City of Leuven, into an accessible place where more than 60 artists come together every week. De FactorY has been housed in OPEK for 10 years. The 25th anniversary will be celebrated throughout the year with various events and activities.

Open from 18 July to 9 August, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Every day from 1 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Bert Cornillie - email hidden; JavaScript is required - 0485 99 52 05 - 016 27 41 30

Greet Verbruggen - email hidden; JavaScript is required 

Kristof Van Gestel - email hidden; JavaScript is required - 0486 24 67 27