Braeckman – Spilliaert, an impressive encounter, separated by more than half a century

★ ★ ★ ★ NRC

'Fascination with the mysteries of the night and the darkness.'

An impressive publication in which celebrated photographer Dirk Braeckman (born 1958) and artist Léon Spilliaert (1881–1946) confront each other and engage in dialogue through their unique oeuvres. Although the two artists’ works are separated by more than half a century, there are numerous visual and thematic similarities between them. Spilliaert created melancholic compositions of architectural elements, tranquil interiors and misty sea views.

Braeckman, who is heavily influenced by Spilliaert, uses photography to create veiled images midway between dream and reality. The two share a fascination with tranquillity and isolation, often elaborated in monochrome tones and distinctive framing.

With contributions from Thijs de Raedt (curator of modern art, Kunstmuseum Den Haag) and Steven Humblet. Publication accompanying the exhibition Dirk Braeckman – Léon Spilliaert: Night Wanderers at Kunstmuseum Den Haag from 12 October 2024 to 12 January 2025.

Braeckman – Spilliaert, an impressive encounter, separated by more than half a century

★ ★ ★ ★ NRC

'Fascination with the mysteries of the night and the darkness.'

An impressive publication in which celebrated photographer Dirk Braeckman (born 1958) and artist Léon Spilliaert (1881–1946) confront each other and engage in dialogue through their unique oeuvres. Although the two artists’ works are separated by more than half a century, there are numerous visual and thematic similarities between them. Spilliaert created melancholic compositions of architectural elements, tranquil interiors and misty sea views.

Braeckman, who is heavily influenced by Spilliaert, uses photography to create veiled images midway between dream and reality. The two share a fascination with tranquillity and isolation, often elaborated in monochrome tones and distinctive framing.

With contributions from Thijs de Raedt (curator of modern art, Kunstmuseum Den Haag) and Steven Humblet. Publication accompanying the exhibition Dirk Braeckman – Léon Spilliaert: Night Wanderers at Kunstmuseum Den Haag from 12 October 2024 to 12 January 2025.